Excitement levels are at fever pitch as South African football gears up for one of its most awaited fixtures, Saturday’s Soweto derby.
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This weekend, the rivalry between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates ignites once again, bringing with it the rich history and fierce competition that fans have come to love.
The 107th league match between the two giants is already sold out, a testament to its importance, with eager supporters counting down the days, hours and minutes.
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The roots of this fierce rivalry trace back to 1970, the year the two Soweto giants first clashed.
Since Kaizer Chiefs’ inception 55 years ago, this fixture has evolved into a fan-fueled spectacle, bringing communities together and generating passionate debates.
Over the previous 106 league meetings, Kaizer Chiefs hold the upper hand, boasting 45 victories compared to Orlando Pirates’ 25.
The intensity of their encounters is further highlighted by 36 drawn matches.
Looking beyond league meetings, when including cup encounters, the teams have fought it out a total of 180 battles, with Kaizer Chiefs’ 74 victories dominating historically over Orlando Pirates’ 47, with 54 draws and five abandonments, owing to various circumstance.
The allure of the Soweto derby, however, lies not just in the statistics but in the shared experiences, the electric atmosphere in the stadium, and the passion of the fans both in the stands and across the nation.
Log positions
As the teams prepare for kick-off for the first time this season on Saturday, both are acutely aware of what is on the line.
For Amakhosi, each point is critical as they look to climb the league table and solidify their position among South Africa’s elite.
Meanwhile, Orlando Pirates aim to inch closer to the coveted top spot, making this derby a high-stakes affair for both sides.
Giving a timely boost to morale, Kaizer Chiefs coach, Nasreddine Nabi, returns to the bench after a two-match suspension, bringing renewed hope and strategy to the team.
New faces
His presence will be bolstered by three new signings, Glody Lilepo, Tashreeq Morris and Thabo Cele, all eager to prove their mettle in this storied rivalry.
Lilepo signed from French Championnat National club Valenciennes FC on a two-and-a-half year deal, while Cele most recently represented Russian side Fakel Voronezh.
He joins on a three-and-a-half year contract.
Morris joined from SuperSport United in a deal that saw Christian Saile move in the opposite direction to Matsatsantsa.
Morris has penned a two-and-a-half-year contract that will keep him at Naturena until 30 June 2027.
Football fans will be watching closely to see if they adapt quickly enough to make significant impact.
Unwavering loyalty
This Soweto derby promises to be filled with emotion, skill, and the unpredictability that defines football.
As the countdown continues, fans prepare their Gold & Black jerseys, makarapas and flags, ready to support the Glamour Boys with unwavering loyalty.
The stage is set and Amakhosi will be ready to rise to the occasion and further etch their name in the annals of South African football history.
The match will be screened live on SuperSport PSL Channel 202 on DStv and SABC 1.
Kick-off is set for 15:30.
Prediction
Orlando Pirates 1-1 Kaizer Chiefs
Kaizer Chiefs or Orlando Pirates – or a draw – after 90 minutes? What’s your prediction?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
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