Soweto Derby: Ex-Chiefs star explains why Amakhosi are favourites to thrash Pirates

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Soweto Derby: Ex-Chiefs star explains why Amakhosi are favourites to thrash Pirates
Orlando Pirates defender Deon Hotto under a challenge from Miguel Inacio and Zitha Kwanikia of Kaizer Chiefs. Photo - Orlando Pirates

Former Kaizer Chiefs defender Mokete Tsotetsi feels the stars have aligned for his ex-team ahead of the already sold out Soweto Derby.

Chiefs will host bitter rivals Pirates at the FNB Stadium on Saturday February 28 and could head into the match five points behind with a game in hand.

The Glamour Boys are on 30 points from 15 games while Pirates have 38 from 17 but Chiefs play Stellenbosch FC on Tuesday and if they win, they will be five points behind.

Relebohile Mofokeng orlando Pirates vs Kaizer Chiefs
Nkosingiphile Ngcobo of Kaizer Chiefs (left) and Relebohile Mofokeng of Orlando Pirates in a past Soweto Derby. Image – PSL

A win over Pirates would see Chiefs move within two points and still have a game in hand. Tsotetsi claims it is very much possible because the Buccaneers head into the game under massive pressure after back-to-back defeats.

Tsotetsi on why Chiefs could beat Pirates

“When it comes to the derby, past results are of little significance,” Tsotetsi admitted when talking to KickOff.

“It is a contest both teams are highly motivated not to lose. Having now lost two matches, this derby presents an even greater challenge for Pirates,” he added, explaining why Pirates will feel more pressure than Chiefs.

Pule Mmodi Kaizer Chiefs vs Orlando Pirates
Pule Mmodi of Kaizer Chiefs tries to get past Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine. Image: Kaizer Chiefs

“Losing three matches consecutively could jeopardise the position of Pirates’ coach, as job security may be at risk. Such a game is an opportunity for a coach to demonstrate resilience and seek redemption.

“Therefore, it is the right time for Chiefs to face Pirates, who will be desperate for a win. I think that desperation may play into Chiefs’ hands and influence the result.

Soweto rivals only left with PSL to contest

 “The fixture promises to be intense and emotionally charged. Both clubs don’t want to lose a derby match.”

Pirates have had a tough past week when they lost 2-1 to Mamelodi Sundowns in the PSL on Wednesday before getting eliminated from the Nedbank Cup at the Round of 16 by lower league side Casric Stars, who beat them on post-match Penalties, after a goalless draw in regulation time.

Chiefs, meanwhile, have not played in 10 days since losing to Zamalek in the CAF Confederation to exit the competition, leaving them with only the league to contest, just like Pirates now, although Abdeslam Ouaddou’s team have won the MTN8 and Carling Knockout. 

<!-- Author Start -->Joel Oliver<!-- Author End -->

Joel Oliver

Author

Joel Oliver is a seasoned multimedia sports journalist with a rich background in covering diverse football stories and events in South Africa and beyond.
His extensive coverage spans subjects touching on the PSL, with a focus on the Big Three (Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs & Mamelodi Sundowns), Bafana Bafana and Banyana Banyana.

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