Key players to look out for in the Soweto derby

South Africa will come to a stand still when Kaizer Chiefs face Orlando Pirates in the DStv Premiership at FNB Stadium on Saturday afternoon [15h30].

The Soweto derby promises to be a mouth-watering encounter with spectators back in the stands for the first time since February 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Chiefs are coming into this clash with a two game unbeaten run in the Soweto derby having beaten Pirates 2-1 in both the fixtures last season.

However, recent form and history goes out of the window when the Soweto giants lock horns.

The Buccaneers come into the showdown with their tails high after thrashing Mamelodi Sundowns 3-0 in the second leg of MTN8 semi-final last Saturday while Amakhosi were knocked out of the tournament by AmaZulu.

FARPost looks at key players to look out for in the Soweto derby.

ORLANDO PIRATES

MONNAPULE SALENG

Saleng has been in a red hot form since the start of the season under José Riveiro.

The 24-year-old attacker has scored four goals, contributed one assist in six games played in all competitions.

The former Free State Stars winger possesses attributes to dribble past defenders and make explosives runs into the box to create goal scoring opportunities.

KERMIT ERASMUS

The goal-poacher found the back of the net against his former side Mamelodi Sundowns at Peter Mokaba Stadium last weekend.

He’ll be looking to build on his scoring momentum against Chiefs.

GOODMAN MOSELE

In the absence of Miguel Timm, who is suspended, after accumulating his fourth yellow card of the season, Mosele will be key for the Ghost in the build up phase and linking defence with attack.

KAIZER CHIEFS

BONFILS-CALEB BEMINYIMANA

The Burundian forward is the club’s top goal scorer with six goals in the league.

Arthur Zwane will be looking at him to chip in with goals as the club looks to end their winless run in the Premiership.

However, his participation will depend on whether he passes the late fitness test.

KEAGAN DOLLY

Dolly, who is the club’s captain in the absence of Itumeleng Khune, is somewhat Chiefs’ talisman.

The Bafana Bafana international forms an integral part of the squad with his leadership qualities and attacking prowess to create and score goals.

His free kicks can prove to be a threat to any opposition.

NJABULO BLOM

Blom has established himself regular starter in the Glamour Boys midfield.

He has played a big role just in front of the back four.

The Chiefs youth product will be key in stopping Pirates from domininating in the middle of the park.