Ex-Pirates captain names Kaizer Chiefs dangermen ahead of Soweto Derby

Former Orlando Pirates captain Lucky Lekgwathi has singled out the players he believes could pose the biggest threat to his old club in the upcoming Soweto Derby this Sunday.

The Buccaneers will host the highly anticipated clash at a sold-out FNB Stadium, looking to replicate their dominant 3-0 victory over Kaizer Chiefs from the first half of the season.

A win is crucial for Pirates to maintain their position at the top of the PSL table, especially with Mamelodi Sundowns also in action against Richards Bay on the same day. Meanwhile, Chiefs are aiming to solidify their hold on third place.

Speaking ahead of the derby, Lekgwathi identified Glody Lilepo, Mduduzi Shabalala, Wandile Duba, and Flavio Da Silva as the key men in the Amakhosi attack.

Flavio Silva of Kaizer Chiefs celebrates scoring against Magesi FC. Photo: Kaizer Chiefs

Kaizer Chiefs lauded over multiple threats

“I think they are not a one-man team, Kaizer Chiefs; they play as a team,” Lekgwathi told iDiski Times.

“The coach is making changes, and everyone who comes into the team wants to grab that position. But they have a good team. It’s just about getting that winning combination. Yes, like in the past five games, he got those combinations and obviously changed here and there.”

While emphasising Chiefs’ collective strength, Lekgwathi highlighted several in-form players who could make a difference.

Orlando Pirates told key Amakhosi threats

Orlando Pirates have been told to watch Glody Lilepo and co. Image: Chiefs

“I don’t want to single out one player, because for me, I think they are playing as a team. Look at [Glody] Lilepo, he’s on form. [Mduduzi] Shabalala is on form. [Wandile] Duba came back, and we know what he can do,” he explained.

Lekgwathi also commented on the unpredictable nature of derby matches, suggesting that players can rise to the occasion regardless of previous form.

“They do have a good team, and you can’t judge players based on certain games because players can be different in the derby,” he noted.

“Players like [Flavio] Da Silva, who is scoring, you may see a different Silva in the derby. But I do think they have a good team; the only thing might be the understanding because of the changes.”