Soweto Derby 2025/26: Kaizer Chiefs vs Orlando Pirates Dates Confirmed

As the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season continues closer, one fixture continues to dominate headlines and stir anticipation across South Africa, the Soweto Derby.

 More than just a football match, the clash between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates is a cultural phenomenon, steeped in history, rivalry, and national pride.

While the title race will undoubtedly capture attention, the Soweto Derby remains the undisputed showpiece of the domestic football calendar.

 It’s a fixture that transcends sport, bringing together generations of fans, igniting township pride, and consistently delivering high drama, electric atmospheres, and iconic moments.

Recent Head-to-Head Stats

Last 5 Meetings (League & Cup):

• Pirates 1–0 Chiefs (Feb 2025)
• Pirates 3–2 Chiefs (Mar 2024)
• Pirates 1–0 Chiefs (Nov 2023)
• Pirates 2–1 Chiefs (May 2023)
• Chiefs 1–0 Pirates (Feb 2023)
• Overall Derby Record (PSL Era):
  • 🏴‍☠️ Pirates Wins: 42
  • 🟡 Chiefs Wins: 31
  • 🤝 Draws: 28
• Longest Unbeaten Run:
  Chiefs went 11 matches unbeaten from 1985 to 1988

First Soweto Derby for Both Technical Teams

Kaizer Chiefs – Cedric Kaze & Khalil Ben Youssef

The Amakhosi technical team is led by Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef, who were appointed earlier this year following the sacking of Nasreddine Nabi.

The duo will be taking charge of their first Soweto Derby, tasked with restoring Chiefs’ competitive edge and ending their recent poor run in the fixture.

Orlando Pirates – Abdeslam Ouaddou

Abdeslam Ouaddou, a former Morocco international with 68 caps, was appointed as Orlando Pirates head coach in June 2025, replacing José Riveiro who left for Al Ahly. This will be Ouaddou’s first Soweto Derby in charge.  His coaching journey includes stints at Marumo Gallants, where he helped the club avoid relegation in early 2025.

Ouaddou is known for his no-nonsense approach, recently criticizing his players for showboating in a Carling Knockout win, saying:

“If we want to do that, we have to go to the circus. I’m here to improve my players and go forward.”

WHEN IS THE NEXT SOWETO DERBY?

There will be no league Soweto Derby in the remainder of 2025. Fans will have to wait until early next year for the first showdown:

• First Derby:
  📅 Saturday, 28 February 2026
  🏟️ FNB Stadium
  🕒 Kick-off time to be confirmed
• Second Derby:
  📅 Saturday, 25 April 2026
  🏟️ FNB Stadium
  🕒 Kick-off time to be confirmed

Both matches are expected to be sell-out events, with ticketing details to be announced closer to the dates. Broadcast coverage will be extensive, with SuperSport and SABC likely to carry the matches live across multiple platforms.