Seven players in contention for their first Soweto Derby appearance

The first Soweto Derby of the season could see seven players make their debut in one of South Africa’s most high-profile football fixtures.

Soccer Laduma has identified the players who may be involved when Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs meet this weekend, with a sold-out crowd expected for the occasion.

A first appearance in the derby can carry significant weight. The match is often regarded as a “make or break” occasion, meaning any player who produces a memorable performance on debut could remain associated with the fixture for years to come.

Those in line for their first Soweto Derby therefore have an important couple of days ahead as they prepare mentally for the pressure of playing in front of a full stadium.

Pirates’ new arrivals push for selection

Several of Orlando Pirates’ recent signings have established themselves in the side and are now regular contributors.

Thapelo Mokobodi and Mthetheleli Mthiyane are among those who have broken into the team, placing themselves in contention to feature in the derby.

Their progress has given Orlando Pirates a number of players who could experience the rivalry for the first time this weekend.

The situation has been less emphatic at Kaizer Chiefs, where the club’s new signings have yet to make the same impact since arriving.

One player unlikely to start the match is Renaldo Leaner. Kaizer Chiefs captain Brandon Petersen returned to the team in Tuesday night’s Carling Knockout Cup last-16 match against TS Galaxy, making Leaner’s chances of being selected for his first Soweto Derby appearance less likely.

The derby will offer any selected debutants the opportunity to make an immediate impression in a fixture that is closely followed and carries major expectations for both clubs.

The seven potential first-time participants are featured in the accompanying gallery.