Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates are set to renew their fierce rivalry this Saturday, clashing once again, but this time with the Nedbank Cup trophy on the line.
The final will take place at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in what promises to be a thrilling spectacle.
Ahead of the much-anticipated encounter, Afrik-Foot highlights five key players to watch from each Soweto giant:
ORLANDO PIRATES
1 – Relebohile Mofokeng
The youngster has rapidly become a vital player for the Buccaneers and consistently performs in big matches. He underlined his importance by finding the back of the net in the last Soweto Derby, which Pirates won 2-1 last Saturday.
Expect him to be key in their quest to secure the cup, reminiscent of his match-winning, last-gasp goal against Mamelodi Sundowns in the final last season.
2 – Mohau Nkota
The left-footed Nkota has enjoyed a remarkable rise this season, showcasing growth and resilience. He has netted important goals for Ezimnyama Ngenkani, notably during the CAF Champions League campaign.
Pirates will look to him to provide a threat from the right flank, especially when potentially comes up against Bradley Cross.
3 – Mbekezeli Mbokazi
Mbokazi has been a solid addition to the defence since his introduction to the first team in recent months. He has adapted quickly, becoming a regular starter in Jose Riveiro’s lineup.
Having already proven crucial in previous big games, he will again be trusted to help thwart the Chiefs attack at the back.
4 – Patrick Maswanganyi
Known as ‘Tito', Maswanganyi has been managing his fitness following an injury layoff and missed the last Soweto Derby last Saturday, watching from the stands.
However, he made a timely return midweek, even scoring, as the Sea Robbers defeated Golden Arrows 2-1 at the Moses Mabhida Stadium – the venue for the final.
5 – Makhehlene Makhaula
Makhaula's presence in midfield has been immense this season. His numerous interceptions alone have likely prevented a considerable number of goals for Pirates.
His vital “dirty work” has been instrumental in securing victories, sometimes even when the team's performance might not have fully warranted it.
KAIZER CHIEFS
1 – Gaston Sirino
The Uruguayan featured for Chiefs after returning from suspension in the last game against Pirates, where he played 68 minutes. He'll be looking to exert more influence this time around.
The former Mamelodi Sundowns will be carrying the responsibility of making Amakhosi play, as he’s their only experienced playmaker.
2 – Thabo Cele
He has been managing an injury lately but the club has handled his recovery well, preparing him specifically for this much-anticipated clash.
Playing in his hometown, Cele will be hoping to help the club he supported growing up hoist their first trophy since 2015.
Chiefs will be counting on his presence in midfield to battle key Pirates players like Thalente Mbatha and Makhaula.
3 – Wandile Duba
Duba scored a crucial goal against Mamelodi Sundowns in the Nedbank Cup semi-final, securing Chiefs' place in the final.
Having famously promised this trophy to the ‘Khosi Nation’, he carries the responsibility to build on that goal and deliver on his promise.
He missed the last Soweto Derby due to suspension and is expected to pose problems for the Pirates defence on Saturday.
4 – Yusuf Maart
Maart has consistently performed well against Pirates over the past two seasons. He notably scored the last time the sides met in the Nedbank Cup semi-final, although Chiefs ultimately lost that match.
As a key leader, Maart will be expected to step up once again, aiming to be the first captain to lift a trophy for Chiefs since Tefu Mashamaite in 2015.
5 – Glody Lilepo
The DRC international possesses the ability to trouble opponents when he cuts inside. While his consistency has been a challenge, he has shown glimpses of being a dangerous attacking threat at times.
