• Pirates coach Riveiro says the derby is special “whether we’re playing for a league, a cup or a sandwich” as his team aims to catch Sundowns.

• Chiefs coach Nabi misses the game through suspension but new signing Thabo Cele could make his debut in the sold-out match.

The biggest game in South African football takes centre stage when Orlando Pirates face Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium on Saturday.

Both teams come into the match feeling good about their recent form. Pirates have won their last three games, while Chiefs just beat Free Agents 4-0 in the Nedbank Cup.

Pirates are chasing league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns and sit six points behind them with a game in hand. Chiefs are a further six points back but have played three more games than Pirates.

Chiefs assistant coach Khalil Ben Youssef, who will be in charge because head coach Nasreddine Nabi is suspended, believes his team can win.

“The derby is 50-50 for both teams,” said Youssef. “We have our ideas, they have their ideas, we will see [...]. We will win, we will see during the match.”

Pirates coach Jose Riveiro knows the game means everything to the fans.

“The derby is unique, you can’t compare it to any other game. Yes, we’ve faced hostile situations in Africa, but this game is special. The Soweto derby, whether we’re playing for a league, a cup or a sandwich, it’s going to be special against Kaizer Chiefs,” said Riveiro.

He praised Chiefs’ improvement this season: “I think Chiefs are playing really well this season. I don’t think that the log is a reflection of Chief’s performances in the league so far if I am honest.”

Chiefs have brought in three new players to help end their 10-year trophy drought. Only midfielder Thabo Cele is likely to play in the derby. Striker Tashreeq Morris is suspended, while winger Glody Lilepo is waiting for his work permit.

Chiefs will also miss injured strikers Ashley du Preez and Wandile Duba, with Ranga Chivaviro set to lead the attack.

The derby heads a busy weekend of PSL action. Richards Bay faces Magesi FC in a relegation battle on Friday night. On Saturday, Stellenbosch FC plays Sekhukhune United, and AmaZulu FC meets SuperSport United.

On Sunday, in-form TS Galaxy host Cape Town City, while league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns welcome Golden Arrows. Sundowns haven’t lost to Arrows since 2019.

Pictured above: The Soweto Derby.

Source: @KaizerChiefs