Soweto Derby: Orlando Pirates predicted starting XI against Kaizer Chiefs

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Orlando Pirates will be looking to extend their good record against Kaizer Chiefs when they face off in the Soweto Derby at the FNB Stadium on Saturday.

Pirates have won four of the last five derbies and are looking to bounce back from back-to-back defeats but to do that, coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has to get his team selection spot on.

Here is how the Buccaneers are likely to line up.

Goalkeeper: Sipho Chaine

Sipho Chaine
Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine

The goalkeeper’s position is unchallenged as he is the undisputed No.1.

Right-back: Deano van Rooyen

The former Stellenbosch star has sprung to prominence in recent matches and is favourite for the left-back spot.

Left-back: Deon Hotto

One of the most experienced players in the Pirates ranks who has remained consistent and key in attack and defence.

Central defence: Nkosinathi Sibisi

Nkosinathi Sibisi Orlando Pirates
Image – Pirates

The defender has been one of the reliable figures for Pirates and will retain his place.

 Central defence: Lebone Seema

Lebone Seema has partnered Sibisi since the departure of Mbekezeli Mbokazi and is in line for the derby.

Central midfield: Masindi Nemtajela

With Thalente Mbatha just returning from injury, Masindi Nemtajela is favourite to start in central midfield.

Central midfield: Makhehlene Makhaula

Makhaula and Fistoni Mayele Orlando Pirates vs Pyramids
Image – Pirates

The experienced central midfielder is another crucial player for Pirates who is set to start.

Attacking midfield: Relebohile Mofokeng

Rele Mofokeng has four goals and five assists this season but what is scary for Chiefs is that three of those goals have come in his last four matches while four of the assists provided in his last seven games.

Right wing: Tshepang Moremi

Tshepang Moremi Orlando Pirates 1

The winger has offered something different when deployed on the wing and could get his place in the team.

Left wing: Oswin Appolis

The winger has been one of the most impressive since joining Pirates with five goals and seven assists and will be relied upon for goals and creativity.

Striker: Yanela Mbuthuma

The preferred striker for coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, he has seven goals and three assists this season which makes it difficult to drop him.

<!-- 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.