Kaizer Chiefs urged to watch Orlando Pirates midfielder Thapelo Mokobodi in Soweto Derby

Kaizer Chiefs have been warned to pay close attention to Orlando Pirates midfielder Thapelo Mokobodi when the two sides meet in the Soweto Derby at FNB Stadium on Saturday.

Former Pirates winger Lebohang ‘CheeseBoy’ Mokoena believes Mokobodi’s form could make him a significant influence in one of the biggest matches on the South African football calendar.

Mokobodi joined Orlando Pirates in July and has impressed Mokoena with his performances since moving to the club. The former winger expects him to maintain that level when Pirates face their local rivals.

“Coach (Abdeslam) Ouaddou’s lineup changes all the time, but you are looking at a Mokobodi, who’s done well,” Mokoena told Soccer Laduma.

“He’s going into this Derby with high confidence. The only thing would be that it’s probably his first Derby, if I’m not mistaken. So that could cause some jitters in him. Well, I think (Tshepang) Moremi may also have a say.”

Mokoena also identified a potential concern for Orlando Pirates, with right-back Bulelani Sigomoshe expected to make his Soweto Derby debut.

Sigomoshe is new to the club and, according to Mokoena, has yet to fully settle into the team. That could leave him under pressure against Kaizer Chiefs.

“I’m just worried about the right back of Orlando Pirates. Is he going to cope? Because he hasn’t settled in really well, you know. Interesting to see,” Mokoena said.

Despite those reservations, Mokoena believes the current balance of form gives Orlando Pirates the advantage heading into Saturday’s contest.

Kaizer Chiefs may take confidence from their 3-0 victory over TS Galaxy in the Carling Knockout, but Mokoena feels that result will not necessarily be enough to overcome a Pirates side performing at a higher level.

“Chiefs might have some confidence after beating TS Galaxy 3-0 in the Carling Knockout. But with the form of the Pirates, it would be an uphill battle for Chiefs,” he added.

“Chiefs look a little bit… they are not yet there. It might be a draw, according to the way I’m feeling, looking at how the build-up is towards this game.”

Mokoena is therefore expecting a closely fought match, while highlighting Mokobodi’s confidence and Moremi’s possible influence as factors that could shape the outcome. At the same time, Sigomoshe’s ability to handle the occasion will be one of the key questions for Orlando Pirates in the derby.