Kaizer Chiefs clear of suspension concerns before Soweto Derby

Kaizer Chiefs will have both of their previously at-risk defenders available for Saturday’s Soweto Derby against Orlando Pirates after avoiding further bookings in midweek.

Chiefs, the away side for the 15:30 kick-off at FNB Stadium, secured a 3-0 victory over TS Galaxy in the Carling Knockout Last 16 on Tuesday without either of the players on three yellow cards receiving another caution.

Inacio Miguel was left out of the squad for the match to remove the possibility of him collecting a fourth booking. That would have triggered a one-match suspension and ruled him out of the eagerly anticipated meeting with Orlando Pirates.

The defender had been booked in Kaizer Chiefs’ most recent domestic match against Stellenbosch FC, having previously been cautioned against Mamelodi Sundowns and Siwelele FC.

Thabo Moloisane did feature against TS Galaxy, but he was taken off late in the game, with Zitha Kwinika replacing him. The change was made as a precaution to ensure Moloisane did not pick up the fourth yellow card of his season.

Moloisane’s previous three bookings came in matches against Stellenbosch FC, Mamelodi Sundowns and Golden Arrows.

As a result, both defenders are eligible to play in the derby. Moloisane is set to take part in the fixture for the first time.

Kaizer Chiefs also have three other players within one booking of a suspension. Sibongiseni Mthethwa, Pule Mmodi and Siphesihle Ndlovu have each collected two yellow cards.

The midweek win over TS Galaxy therefore allowed Chiefs to progress in the Carling Knockout while preserving their defensive options for Saturday’s meeting with Orlando Pirates.

The Soweto Derby will be played at FNB Stadium, with Chiefs listed as the visiting team.