Orlando Pirates: Simphiwe Masilela could play in the Soweto derby

31.10.26 09:30 South African Betway Premiership

Orlando Pirates

-

:

Kaizer Chiefs

-

Orlando Pirates look set to welcome back Simphiwe Masilela for this weekend's Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs. The promising young attacking midfielder was given a rest during the Buccaneers' Carling Knockout Cup fixture against Milford FC.

• read more: Carling Cup exit a blessing in disguise - TS Galaxy coach

On Tuesday evening, Pirates secured their spot in the quarter-finals with a dominant 3-0 win over Milford. However, the focus has now turned to the Betway Premiership, where they will take on their longstanding rivals on Saturday.

A necessary postponement

Kaizer Chiefs, meanwhile, will also arrive at the highly anticipated showdown fresh off a 3-0 cup triumph, having gotten the better of TS Galaxy on the very same evening.

The sight of Masilela missing from Pirates' matchday squad against Milford left some fans scratching their heads, especially considering how impressive the Soweto giants' young star has been of late.

Word from within the club, though, suggests the 22-year-old was simply being given a breather, and he is expected to be in contention for the derby.

There was another layer to the decision as well — a disciplinary one. Masilela has accumulated three yellow cards in domestic competitions, meaning one more booking would trigger a suspension.

Had he played against Milford and picked up another caution, he would have been ruled out of Saturday's marquee clash with Chiefs.

• read more: Miguel Cardoso explains Saleng decision in Gallants cup win

A good season so far

Prior to Tuesday's fixture, Masilela had made 10 domestic appearances across cup and league competitions for Pirates this season — six of those coming in the league, where he has contributed a goal and an assist, along with four outings in the MTN8.

His anticipated comeback would be a timely lift for the Buccaneers as they shift their focus to one of the most significant fixtures on the South African football calendar.

Hazem Mlhem |

Editorar, en

Hazem Mlhem est un rédacteur sportif expérimenté, animé par une passion pour le football africain.

Related teams and leagues

Orlando Pirates

Kaizer Chiefs

South African Betway Premiership