Orlando Pirates boss Jose Riveiro must tinker with his side to face Kaizer Chiefs after an untimely suspension has wrecked his plans.
Buccaneers falter against Babina Noko
Orlando Pirates’ league title challenge looks to be in tatters after their 0-1 home defeat to Sekhukhune. It leaves them 12 points adrift of leaders Sundowns, albeit with two games in hand. Key defender Nkosinathi Sibisi will miss the clash with Chiefs after his red card against Babina Noko. It’s been a bad week for the Sea Robbers, who also tumbled out of the Caf Champions League at the semi-final stage.
Predicted Orlando Pirates XI vs Kaizer Chiefs
Chaine; Van Rooyen, Xoki, Mbokazi, Hotto; Makhaula, Mbatha; Nkota, Maswanganyi, Mofokeng; Mabasa.
We could see Patrick Maswanganyi back in the side, allowing manager Riveiro to revert to a back four. Tapelo Xoki should deputise for the suspended Sibisi. Elsewhere, Tshegofatso Mabasa is often the first-choice attacker in domestic league outings.
Orlando Pirates have dominated the fixture in recent seasons
Chiefs have lost four of their last five meetings with Pirates, including each of the last four across all competitions.
- Pirates 1-0 Chiefs
- Pirates 3-2 Chiefs
- Chiefs 0-1 Pirates
- Chiefs 1-2 Pirates
- Chiefs 1-0 Pirates
Latest Amakhosi transfer rumours
Fixture details
These sworn Soweto Derby rivals meet in the Betway Premiership on Saturday, 03 May at 15:00. They meet again the following Saturday, 10 May in the Nedbank Cup final. That match also kicks off at 15:00. It’s crunch time!
Will Pirates find their form again in this titanic tussle?
Let us know by leaving a comment below or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Also, subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
