Soweto Derby: Ex-Pirates coach makes showboating request

Former Orlando Pirates coach Rodger De Sa has expressed his desire to see some showboating during the Soweto Derby this weekend.

Orlando Pirates will host Kaizer Chiefs in the latest edition of the Soweto Derby on Saturday, October 31 with both sides heading into the game in confident mood after winning their respective Carling Knockout Round of 16 matches 3-0 on Tuesday.

Tshepang Moremi of Orlando Pirates vies for the ball with Pule Mmodi of Kaizer Chiefs in the Soweto Derby. Photo – Kaizer Chiefs

De Sa is looking forward to a feisty encounter and will not mind if the game is spiced up by some showboating, something that has already divided opinion in South African football.

Kasi Flava draws its origin from past Soweto derbies when players like Doctor Khumalo, Jomo Sono, Tebogo Moloi and Isaac Kungwane among others did tricks and flicks with some going as far as standing on the ball during the game.

Oswin Appollis of Orlando Pirates and Pule Mmodi of Kaizer Chiefs during the Soweto Derby. Image: Orlando Pirates

Ex-Pirates coach calls for some ‘spice’

While such antics are now frowned upon, De Sa says there is still room for showboating and there is no better place than the Soweto derby when playing in front of a packed FNB Stadium.

“In the derby, I didn’t have to motivate my Pirates players. I only did it against the smaller teams.” De Sa told KickOff.

Ethan Chislett and Kamogelo Sebelebele during the Soweto Derby between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates. Image: Orlando Pirates

“I played a Soweto Derby myself. A Swallows v Pirates match was massive in my time. You only do showboating if you are winning, and you are winning convincingly. There’s a time and a place for it,” he added, expressing his wish for some showboating when Pirates and Chiefs clash at the weekend.

“There’s always room for a little bit of spice in the Soweto Derby, it excites the crowd and motivates everybody,” he stated.

De Sa issues Soweto Derby caution

Brandon Petersen saves the ball against Orlando Pirates in the Soweto Derby. Photo: Kaizer Chiefs

The veteran coach, however, warned the players to ensure their teams are comfortably in the lead before putting on the show during the high stakes encounter.

“It enlightens the game, and with due respect, it is part of the game in South Africa. You’ve got to allow that kind of signature to our home,” said De Sa.

“So, showboating should be allowed on Saturday, but there’s a time and a place for showboating I must say.”