Nabi v Riveiro: Who will win bragging rights in Soweto derby between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates?

The iconic FNB Stadium is set to echo with the roars of thousands of passionate supporters as Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates prepare to square off in one of South Africa’s most treasured sporting events, the Soweto derby, on Saturday.

Just over a week ago, the sold-out signs went up at the 94,000-seater stadium, affectionately known as the Calabash, the cathedral of South African football.

The stakes are higher than ever because the encounter not only fuels age-old rivalries, but promises to be a pivotal moment in the Premiership campaigns of the respective teams.

For Chiefs, the urgency to end a six-game winless league streak has reached fever pitch.

Their recent loss to Marumo Gallants, a disappointing 2-1 result, positioned them precariously in ninth place on the league table, just behind Chippa United, who sit eighth on goal difference, but have played a game less.

With only a few matches remaining in the season, a top-eight finish is at stake, adding extra pressure to an already charged atmosphere.

On the other end of the rivalry, Orlando Pirates enter the derby with aspirations to chase down league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, who sit 12 points clear at the top.

However, Pirates faced a setback during midweek with a surprising 1-0 defeat against Sekhukhune United at home.

This defeat has propelled them into a must-win scenario against their bitter rivals, hoping to close the gap and maintain their championship ambitions.

Yet, with an intriguing twist, this derby serves a dual purpose – it acts as a precursor to the upcoming Nedbank Cup final, where these titans will meet again the following Saturday May 10 at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.

As fans eagerly await that high-stakes face-off, Saturday’s league duel presents an opportunity for both teams to build momentum and set the tone for their cup battle.

Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi acknowledged the enormity of the fixture during a press conference this week, opting for a cautious, yet optimistic approach.

“If Kaizer Chiefs wins the derby on Saturday, it’s not going to be a surprise,” he said, suggesting that the unpredictability of such iconic matches often prevails.

“Similarly, if Orlando Pirates win, it won’t be a surprise either, as both are the biggest clubs in South Africa.”

Despite the current league standings, Nabi emphasised his faith in his team, asserting that Saturday’s clash promises to be a fierce battle between two storied rivals, regardless of form or position.

In his view, the spirit and intensity of the Soweto derby are what truly define it, making this match a highlight of the weekend’s sporting calendar.

Pirates coach Jose Riveiro, who will be leaving the club at the end of the season, reflected on the significance of the derby and the impact South African football has had on his life.

“Personally, it (the association with Pirates) has changed my life. I am impressed with the league, not only my players. It’s nice to have such talented players. I tell them all the time that they make me happy having to manage such talent,” Riveiro said.

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“This is my last derby at FNB. It’s a special place – not only for me, but for the players as well.”

While the occasion is a personal milestone, Riveiro emphasised the importance of bouncing back after recent results and delivering a performance worthy of the supporters.

“We are looking for victory. That’s important for us and the fans. We need to get back on track.

“We understand the responsibility – we are a winning team.”

As both clubs look to restore pride and momentum, all eyes will undoubtedly be on FNB Stadium this Saturday.

With fervent support expected from both sets of fans, the clash of Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates is set to be a thrilling chapter in the ongoing saga of South African football.