Orlando Pirates are expected to name a strong line-up when they face Kaizer Chiefs in the first Soweto Derby of the season at FNB Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
The Buccaneers will be targeting a victory that could lift them to the top of the Betway Premiership standings, while Amakhosi will be determined to end their winless run against their Soweto rivals. The match carries both important league points and the usual local bragging rights.
Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou is therefore expected to select a side capable of dealing with the pressure of the occasion and overcoming Kaizer Chiefs.
Sipho Chaine is tipped to retain his place in goal. The Orlando Pirates goalkeeper will have the responsibility of dealing with a Chiefs attack that will be looking to make an early impact in a high-pressure fixture.
In defence, Lebone Seema could be joined by Nkosinathi Sibisi in central areas. Bulelani Sigomoshe and Deon Hotto are also included in the predicted starting XI, with the defensive unit needing to stay compact and disciplined throughout the contest.
Thalente Mbatha is expected to play a key role in midfield, alongside Thapelo Mokobodi and Simphiwe Masilela. Their main tasks will be to provide balance, compete for possession and help Pirates control the pace of the game.
The midfield trio could also be central to the visitors’ attacking ambitions, with their ability to dictate play and supply the forward players likely to influence how effectively Orlando Pirates can impose themselves on their rivals.
Tshepang Moremi is expected to operate out wide, where his pace and attacking threat could test the Kaizer Chiefs defence. Kabelo Kgositsile is also named in the predicted side as Pirates prepare for a match in which space and quick movement may be decisive.
Evidence Makgopa is tipped to lead the attack as the lone striker. He will be expected to convert the opportunities created by Pirates’ midfielders and wide players.
The Soweto Derby can be decided by narrow margins, meaning Orlando Pirates’ key players will need to perform if the club are to claim three points and strengthen their push for the Betway Premiership title.
Orlando Pirates predicted line-up: Sipho Chaine, Bulelani Sigomoshe, Lebone Seema, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Deon Hotto, Thalente Mbatha, Thapelo Mokobodi, Simphiwe Masilela, Tshepang Moremi, Kabelo Kgositsile and Evidence Makgopa.
