Saturday, March 15, at 1:30 p.m. GMT, marks a highly anticipated event at FNB Stadium, famously known as Soccer City since the 2010 World Cup. It’s the clash between the two most popular clubs in South Africa, a match that promises to be explosive.
Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs share a closely intertwined history. The latter emerged in 1970 from a split within the Buccaneers (Orlando’s nickname) but has since surpassed its rival. With 11 league titles for Amakhosi against 9 for Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs now hold a more esteemed status.
Broadcast on SuperSport and expected to draw 100,000 spectators, this match is the highlight of the season, garnering immense attention.
Orlando Pirates, finalists in the last African Champions League, currently sit in 4th place with 33 points, trailing Kaizer Chiefs, who lead the standings by 10 points. However, a victory on Saturday, coupled with a pending match, could bring the Sea Robbers (another nickname for Orlando Pirates) within 4 points of the leaders. To prepare for the showdown, Orlando secured a win against Moroka Swallows (1-0) on Tuesday, with Senza Meyiwa scoring the decisive goal, while Kaizer Chiefs suffered a defeat to Platinum Stars (0-2).
The anticipation for the match is palpable, with nearly 100,000 fans expected to fill the stadium, creating an electric atmosphere with their endless vuvuzelas. The clash will be broadcast live on SuperSport, a channel with global reach, underscoring its significance not only in South Africa but also on the global football stage.
Key players to watch include Bafana Bafana captain Itumeleng Khune and striker Bernard Parker for Kaizer Chiefs, along with the new recruit Majoro and Senza Meyiwa for Orlando Pirates.
As in every derby, emotions run high, with veterans like Benni McCarthy heating up the atmosphere. McCarthy, a Bafana Bafana legend, accepted a final challenge with Orlando Pirates last year to prove a point to Kaizer Chiefs, who had labeled him a “finished player.”
Former South African derby referee Andile Ncobo describes the experience as incredible, highlighting the immense pressure on the match referee. The unpredictability of the game adds to the intensity, requiring mental strength to navigate the challenges.
Fans can follow the match on Twitter using the hashtag #SowetoDerby2014 and on Africa Top Sports’ social networks Facebook and Twitter.
