Orlando Pirates vs Kaizer Chiefs: Predicted XI in Soweto Derby

Orlando Pirates are set to host Kaizer Chiefs in the Premier Soccer League’s Soweto Derby on Sunday at the FNB Stadium.

This is a massive game that attracts interest from not only Mzansi but the world since the two sides have massive followings. Even Mamelodi Sundowns’ faithful will be interested in the fixture since Bucs are direct competitors for the crown.

Head-to-Head Record

Pirates have been dominating recent PSL meetings, winning the previous six meetings. The most recent was on February 28 where the Sea Robbers grabbed a 3-0 victory.

Zitha Kwinika and Relebohile Mofokeng, Kaizer Chiefs vs Orlando Pirates in the Soweto derby. Photo: Orlando Pirates

“Things remain pretty tight over a longer sequence of fixtures with Pirates boasting 15 wins and 51 goals in the last 50 instalments of the Soweto Derby, while Chiefs remain slightly ahead under the wins column with 17 victories and a goal tally of 50 during this period,” Bucs confirmed the facts.

How will Pirates & Chiefs lineup? Here is our prediction

Goalkeepers

As anticipated, the Sea Robbers will start with Sipho Chaine in goal. The Bafana Bafana international is chasing his 18th clean sheet in the Premier Soccer League.

Brandon Petersen missed the last Soweto Derby owing to an injury. He is chasing his 14th clean sheet.

Defenders:

At the heart of Bucs defense, captain Nkosinathi Sibisi and Lebone Seema are most likely to continue with their shifts. Kamogelo Sebelebele has been doing well on the right, explaining why he might start, with the experience of Deon Hotto coming in handy on the left.

Inacio Miguel of Kaizer Chiefs playing. Image: Kaizer Chiefs

It will be a massive call for Amakhosi’s technical team, especially with the availability of Gavin Msimango and Inacio Miguel. Despite the former’s form, the Angolan is expected to partner with Aden McCarthy in central defense.

Thabiso Monyane should keep his place on the right while Bradley Cross fills the left-back position.

Midfielders:

Makhehlene Makhaula will most probably provide cover for the back four with Masindi Nemtajela complementing him. Relebohile Mofokeng might be played in the No. 10 role for Orlando Pirates. The 21-year-old has 10 goals already and provided seven assists in the PSL.

In recent matches, Lebohang Maboe and Siphesihle Ndlovu have formed a formidable partnership, explaining why Thabo Cele is expected to start from the bench.

Chiefs’ creative role might be left for Mduduzi Shabalala.

Attack:

The Sea Robbers’ attacking department will most probably be led by Yanela Mbuthuma who was on target in the recent 3-0 win over AmaZulu. Oswin Appollis and Tshepang Moremi will complete the attacking trio.

Flavio Silva of Kaizer Chiefs – Image: Chiefs

Flavio Silva has been an effective outlet for the Glamour Boys in his debut season. He has seven goals and an assist. Wandile Duba and Glody Lilepo are set to provide options in wide areas.