Relebohile Mofokeng Relebohile Mofokeng will hope to inspire Orlando Pirates to victory in their Premiership clash against Kaizer Chiefs. Photo: AFP
Image: AFP
Kaizer Chiefs will welcome Orlando Pirates in a must-win Premiership clash at the FNB Stadium on Saturday (3pm kick-off).
Amakhosi have their sights on returning to the top eight after missing out last season, while the Buccaneers are still holding onto an outside chance of winning the league title.
Here, we highlight the top five players with the potential to make a telling impact in Saturday's crucial match...
The 20-year-old former Pirates development player possesses a spark that can ignite at any moment.
His career has been steadily rising, and despite his age, he has shouldered significant responsibility throughout what has been a largely successful campaign.
His big derby moment could be just around the corner.
With Chiefs coming into the clash low on confidence, the stage may be perfectly set for him to seize the spotlight sooner rather than later.
Gaston Sirino of Kaizer Chiefs. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
At his best, the Uruguayan midfielder ranks among the finest in the league, and if Chiefs are to enjoy a successful afternoon in Saturday’s Soweto Derby, his influence will be crucial.
His absence was clearly felt in the recent 2-1 defeat to Marumo Gallants, where Chiefs struggled to control the tempo and assert themselves in midfield.
While his season has largely flown under the radar, he possesses the X-factor and game-changing ability to tilt the balance in high-pressure encounters.
And on a stage as big as the derby, his creativity and composure could make all the difference.
Mohau Nkota helped Orlando Pirates beat CR Belouizdad.Photo: Orlando Pirates/ X
Image: Orlando Pirates
Another development graduate that has grown a lot with every minute that he has played this season.
His exploits in the CAF Champions League may not have been enough, as the Buccaneers were eliminated in the semi-finals with a 3-2 aggregate loss against Pyramids FC.
But his experience and growth stand to benefit both himself and the club for many seasons to come.
At just 20, Nkota displays remarkable self-belief and composure, traits he has consistently shown in high-profile matches.
He appears to thrive under pressure, often rising to the occasion when the stakes are highest.
The upcoming Soweto Derby presents another big stage – and another opportunity – for the talented youngster to make his mark.
ORLANDO Pirates defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi continues to receive rave reviews after his domestic and continental exploits. | BackpagePix
Image: BACKPAGEPIX
The 19-year-old center-back has been thrown into the deep end, but has responded with composure and maturity, quickly establishing himself as a key figure in the Pirates' defence.
Mbokazi offers a rare asset in South African football – a natural left foot – giving him a valuable edge over many of his peers in the position.
His consistency in the few matches he has played has not gone unnoticed, and he is now in line to make his Soweto Derby debut.
Notably, he held his own in high-pressure encounters, including an impressive display in a 2-1 league win against a Mamelodi Sundowns side that boasts one of the league’s most dangerous attacking sides.
Shabalala is one of Amakhosi’s brightest young talents, and has impressed this season despite the club’s struggles.
The 21-year-old boasts one of the highest work rates among attacking midfielders, and his ability to beat defenders and transition quickly into attack sets him apart.
And while his finishing still needs polishing, he has shown he can be clinical when it counts, and the threat he carries in the final third could be enough to swing the result in Chiefs’ favour.
Related Topics: