The fierce rivalry between the traditional giants of South African soccer resumes at Orlando Stadium on Saturday, when Orlando Pirates take on Kaizer Chiefs in one of the most contested derbies in the continent.
The much celebrated teams in South Africa lock horns for the 151 time.
So eagerly waited is the game that Premier Soccer League bosses have
postponed all other games this weekend except the Soweto derby.
However, a quick glance at the log standings shows that Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs have no hope of winning the Premier Soccer League title.
Kaizer Chiefs is on fourth place on the log and Pirates firth and are trailing log leaders Super Sport by 13 and 15 points respectively.
Both Chiefs and Orlando are merely fighting for third place.
But even in these dark days for these celebrated clubs fans interest has not diminished because it has never been only about the three points at stake.
Round two in the Battle of Soweto give fans a reason to be optimistic for about 90-odd minutes of the exciting brand of soccer that can only be expected when these two clubs clash.
Locals say the Soweto derby is about pride and bragging rights. It is a battle that highlights the historic rivalry between the biggest sets of fans in the country.
The reverse fixture last year ended in a disappointing 0-0 draw.
However, some inspiring individual displays from both camps suggest that this encounter will be better than last year’s damp squib.
Players from both teams seem geared up for the game.
Orlando Pirates striker Katlego Mashego is today quoted saying “A Derby is a Derby and it is always important. A Derby is not normal… I mean, it is not a normal game so it is not the same as the other games.
“There are bragging rights to play for; there are lots of things to play for in this game,” he says.
Kaizer Chiefs captain Jimmy Tau is also building up the tension.
“We will do it for our fans on Saturday and all those associated with the club. We should win so that we make the fans happy,” Tau is quoted saying.
Pirates have in their books Teko Modise-a player who is expected to shine for Bafana Bafana come June.
For Chief’s which boost of four Zimbabweans in their squad pin their hopes young Knowledge Musona of Zimbabwe.
