Once more, the South African football community is destined to be split as two prominent clubs, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, clash in the Soweto derby for crucial Betway Premiership points.
The clash takes place this Saturday at a sold-out FNB Stadium in Johannesburg at 15:00.
The two sides desperately need points as they are fighting for different causes in the domestic league.
The hosts, Chiefs, are in a serious battle to avoid finishing the season outside of the top eight again, as in the previous campaign.
The Glamour Boys are currently in ninth place with 30 points from 25 matches they have played this season.
With the season having been shortened because of Royal AM’s expulsion from the Premier Soccer League, Amakhosi are left with just three matches to play in the league.
The Nasreddine Nabi-coached outfit are level on points with the eighth-placed Chippa United. However, the Chilli Boys have played 24 matches.
Meanwhile, the second-placed Pirates dropped points in their 1-0 defeat to Sekhukhune United on Wednesday, and they can’t afford to drop more points if they are to stand a chance of pipping Mamelodi Sundowns in the race for the league title.
After the defeat, the Sea Robbers fell 12 points behind Sundowns. Pirates, who have two games in hand, are on 46 points while Masandawana are on 58.
Another negative result will make it difficult for the Buccaneers to bounce back in the race for the top honours.
Pirates will be without defender Nkosinathi Sibisi, while Amakhosi will miss Wandile Duba for the clash.
How to watch
The match will be broadcast on SABC 1 and SuperSport Channel 202 from 14:55, with streaming also available on Showmax and SABC Plus.
Live commentary will be available on various SABC radio stations.
Head-to-head
01.02.25 – PL – Orlando Pirates 1-0 Kaizer Chiefs
09.03.24 – PL – Orlando Pirates 3-2 Kaizer Chiefs
11.11.23 – PL – Kaizer Chiefs 0-1 Orlando Pirates
06.05.23 – NC – Kaizer Chiefs 1-2 Orlando Pirates
25.02.23 – PL – Kaizer Chiefs 1-0 Orlando Pirates
Betting odds
Looking at how both sides have performed this season, it’s understandable that Pirates are the favourites to win this clash.
They have had a good season, enjoying decent runs in the Nedbank Cup, the league and the Caf Champions League. They also won the MTN8 early in the campaign.
However, as they always say, “When it comes to the derby, form counts for nothing.”
Don’t rule out Amakhosi surprising their nemesis. To place a bet, head over to Hollywoodbets.net.
5/2 Chiefs | Draw 2/1 | Pirates 5/4
Players to watch
Coach Nabi will rely on players such as Glody Lilepo. After joining Amakhosi early this year, the Congolese forward has scored four goals in the league.
Thabo Cele will be another who will be crucial for Chiefs in the middle of the park.
Pirates boss Jose Riveiro will hope that his youngsters, Mohau Nkota and Relebohile Mofokeng, continue the fine form they have shown recently, especially in the Champions League.
Written by Sithembiso Dindi