Soweto Derby:Predicted Orlando Pirates XI vs Kaizer Chiefs!

Orlando Pirates are in a great place at the moment, ahead of the Soweto Derby against arch rivals Kaizer Chiefs.

Pirates find themselves second in the Betway Premiership and qualified top of their CAF Champions League group featuring Al Ahly. 

They have also got a trophy in their cabinet already, after defending their MTN8 trophy earlier in the season. In their last game, Pirates were made to sweat in a 2-1 Nedbank Cup game against Richards Bay FC in Durban. It took a late Tshegofatso Mabasa goal to ensure that the Buccaneers go through to the next round. 

Pirates have great momentum

Pirates would’ve also had a great opportunity to train fully for a week, without travelling or midweek games. They have had challenging schedule with continental commitments to contend with. During the week, coach Jose Riveiro said he has a squad of about 37 players at his disposal. He admitted that will give him a headache coming into this Soweto Derby against Chiefs. 

The likes of Olisa Ndah and Paseka Mako were pictured training separately during the week. This could mean they will not be in the side. The same is expected for Zakhele Lepasa who is also fighting his way back to match fitness. Pirates will also be without their last Soweto Derby hero in Thabiso Lebitso who got injured in the game against Al Ahly. 

Is this the team to start against Chiefs in the Soweto Derby?

Nonetheless Pirates do have a settled side and Riveiro is not expected to tinker too much with his charges. The Buccaneers have also won the last three Soweto Derby’s between against Chiefs in all competitions. Is this how they will line up for the latest instalment?

Predicted Pirates XI:

Sipho Chaine, Deon Hotto, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Thabiso Sesane, Deano van Rooyen, Thalente Mbatha, Makhehlene Makhaula, Relebohile Mofokeng, Patrick Maswanganyi, Mohau Nkota, Evidence Makgopa.

Pirates fans, what is your predicted line up? Feel free to leave yours in the comments below