Soweto Derby Showdown: Orlando Pirates Eye Chiefs Scalp in Title Chase

The first Soweto Derby of the 2024/25 season is set to ignite FNB Stadium on February 1, and while the pride of Soweto is always on the line, this time the stakes are even higher—especially for Orlando Pirates.

The Buccaneers are locked in a fierce DStv Premiership title race with defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns, trailing by just six points with a game in hand. A win over Kaizer Chiefs would not only extend their recent dominance in this fixture but also keep them firmly in the hunt for the league crown. Meanwhile, Amakhosi—despite sitting in fifth place and far from the title race—would love nothing more than to throw a spanner in their rivals’ plans.

Pirates on the Hunt, Chiefs Out to Spoil the Party

For the past seven seasons, Sundowns have ruled South African football, backed by deep pockets and ruthless efficiency. Pirates, however, have been closing the gap under José Riveiro, building a squad that blends experience with exciting young talent. With the likes of Relebohile Mofokeng and Patrick ‘Tito’ Maswanganyi stepping up, the Buccaneers have not only entered the title race but also made waves in the CAF Champions League, finishing above Egyptian giants Al Ahly in the group stage.

Chiefs, on the other hand, are still searching for their former glory. Nasreddine Nabi was brought in last July to rescue a team that endured a worst-ever 10th-place finish in the 2023/24 season. While there have been flashes of improvement under his guidance, injuries and inconsistency have kept them from mounting a serious challenge at the top. Still, form matters little in the Derby—this is a game where history is written, and Chiefs will be desperate to rewrite theirs.

Key Team News

Chiefs received a massive boost ahead of the clash as Uruguayan star Gastón Sirino returned from injury in their 4-0 Nedbank Cup win over Free Agents. Sirino, who arrived from Sundowns in August, had been out since December with a broken rib. However, Amakhosi remain without Venezuelan midfielder Edson Castillo (broken fibula) and Ashley du Preez, who suffered a setback earlier this month.

Pirates, meanwhile, will be sweating over the availability of key players, with Goodman Mosele, Zakhele Lepasa, Thabiso Monyane, and Olisa Ndah all missing their last outing. Their absence hasn’t slowed the Buccaneers down, though, as they cruised to a 3-1 win over Richards Bay in the Nedbank Cup.

History Favors the Buccaneers

Recent form in the Derby belongs to Pirates—they have won the last three meetings in all competitions. However, these clashes have been tight, with three of the last four league encounters ending 1-0. Chiefs fans will be hoping for a moment of magic to shift the momentum, much like Mabhuti Khenyeza’s historic 19-second goal in 2007, the fastest strike in Derby history.

Pirates enter the game winning five of their last six matches (5-0-1), while Chiefs have won four of their last six (4-0-2). Despite their inconsistent season, Amakhosi know that a victory in the Soweto Derby could be the spark they need to reignite their campaign.

The Verdict: Derby Day Drama Awaits

With a sold-out FNB Stadium expected and millions watching across the continent, all eyes will be on Soweto’s fiercest rivalry. Will Pirates keep their title dream alive and extend their dominance, or will Chiefs rise to the occasion and play spoiler?

One thing is certain: history will be made under the bright lights of Johannesburg. The battle for Soweto is here.

📅 Date: February 1, 2025
📍 Venue: FNB Stadium, Johannesburg
⏰ Kickoff: 15:30pm

image: gallo