Orlando Pirates - Kaizer Chiefs : predicted line-ups for the Soweto derby

Injury returns and attacking competition shape the predicted starting teams for the October 31 Soweto derby

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Orlando Pirates - Kaizer Chiefs : predicted line-ups for the Soweto derby

31.10.26 09:30 South African Betway Premiership

Orlando Pirates

Kaizer Chiefs

Injury returns and attacking decisions leave several starting places open ahead of the Soweto derby. Here are the predicted line-ups for both South African rivals.

Who will start in the Soweto showdown? Orlando Pirates face Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium on Saturday, October 31, at 15:30 South African time in the Betway Premiership. The Buccaneers sit second with 22 points, while fifth-placed Chiefs have 14. The official starting line-ups have not yet been announced.

Pirates could turn to Masilela

In his predictions for Bets.co.za, South African journalist Ralph Staniforth forecasts a 4-3-3 for Abdeslam Ouaddou. Simphiwe Masilela, rested against Milford ahead of the derby, could return to the starting team. Boitumelo Radiopane is tipped to lead the line, although Evidence Makgopa remains an alternative.

IOL reports that Kamogelo Sebelebele will miss the match, opening the door for Bulelani Sigomoshe at right-back. SABC Sport also reported that Ghampani Lungu went off injured on Tuesday. Tshepang Moremi heads into the derby after scoring twice in the 3-0 win over Milford.

Orlando Pirates predicted XI (4-3-3):
Sipho Chaine - Bulelani Sigomoshe, Lebone Seema, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Deon Hotto - Thapelo Mokobodi, Simphiwe Selepe, Thalente Mbatha - Simphiwe Masilela, Boitumelo Radiopane, Tshepang Moremi.

Chiefs face a decision in central defence

Brandon Petersen and Rushwin Dortley returned to the starting line-up against TS Galaxy, as confirmed by the club. For the derby, however, Bets.co.za predicts that Inácio Miguel will return alongside Thabo Moloisane. Dortley, who has only just returned from a lengthy absence, remains an option.

Up front, Wandile Duba looks well placed to start after his hat-trick in Tuesday’s 3-0 victory over TS Galaxy. Fernando Da Cruz could select Mfundo Vilakazi, Mduduzi Shabalala and Pule Mmodi behind him.

Kaizer Chiefs predicted XI (4-2-3-1):
Brandon Petersen - Reeve Frosler, Thabo Moloisane, Inácio Miguel, Paseka Mako - Lebohang Maboe, Sibongiseni Mthethwa - Mfundo Vilakazi, Mduduzi Shabalala, Pule Mmodi - Wandile Duba.

Alternatives remain before the final training session

Oswin Appollis and Mpho Padime provide further attacking options for Pirates. For Chiefs, Bradley Cross could challenge Mako at left-back. iDiski Times also reported that Renaldo Leaner suffered a finger injury, ruling him out of the Red Arrows return leg.

Both coaches must also manage a busy schedule. Pirates have just secured qualification for the CAF Champions League group stage, while Chiefs played a CAF Confederation Cup qualifying tie before their domestic cup win. Player recovery will therefore help shape the final selections

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