Orlando Pirates are set to host their old rivals Kaizer Chiefs at the FNB Stadium in the highly anticipated Soweto Derby.
The Buccaneers have had a better season so far by miles when compared to the Glamour Boys who have been literally limping. While the former have won another Cup, the MTN8, Amakhosi are into their tenth year without silverware.
However, we are all aware the Soweto Derby is full of surprises, meaning Bucs are not guaranteed a win. As a matter of fact, here are five reasons why the Glamour Boys might floor Pirates on Saturday.
Pirates have to be stopped!
In the recent five meetings across all competitions, the Sea Robbers have managed to get four wins – two in the Premier Soccer League and two in Cup competitions, and a loss. This is not what Amakhosi fans want to see!
The players will surely want to end that run. There is no way Pirates can win four Soweto Derbies in a row! It explains why Chiefs want to win it and go home with the bragging rights.
The new signings
Imagine just before the big game, three star players are signed by the Glamour Boys! Yes, we have Tashreeq Morris, Thabo Cele, and Glody Makabi Lilepo. The last two have been playing in Europe meaning they have massive experience to deliver for Amakhosi, while Morris has been plying trade in Mzansi.
The three signings will not wish to start their career in the Premier Soccer League. As a matter of fact, they want to endear themselves to the fans; what is the best way to do it other than beating Pirates?
Increased competition
The signing of Morris, Lilepo, and Cele is healthy for the team since the other players will have no option but to increase their work rate to stand a chance of making the first team regularly.
Other players who have been doing well of late include George Matlou, Thatayaone Ditlhokwe, Mfundo Vilakazi, and Bruce Bvuma. The desire to keep their spot in the starting XI will push them beyond the limits on Saturday.
Who wants to lose his first derby?
Since taking over as Kaizer Chiefs coach, Nasreddine Nabi has not led his team against the Buccaneers. He is just returning from a two-match suspension after missing the PSL game against Sekhukhune United and Sunday's Nedbank Cup win over minnows Free Agent.
Nabi has most definitely planned his tactics well in a bid to get his maiden Soweto Derby victory this weekend.
The bragging rights!
Now forget the aforementioned reasons and focus on the bragging rights! That is what has made this fixture massive, not only in the country but in Africa at large. Everybody wants to be associated with a win.
This is the major factor that will give players the energy and motivation to fight harder on Sunday. Beating your rivals feels good, right?
