Soweto Derby: Kaizer Chiefs must pay special attention to this Orlando Pirates player

31.10.26 09:30 South African Betway Premiership

Orlando Pirates

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Kaizer Chiefs

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According to former Orlando Pirates winger Lebohang "CheeseBoy" Mokoena, Kaizer Chiefs would be well advised to pay particularly close attention to Orlando Pirates midfielder Thapelo Mokobodi when the two sides meet in Saturday's Soweto Derby.

• read more: Unveiling the top 10 most valuable players list in the Soweto Derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs

Mokoena shared this assessment during an exclusive conversation with Soccer Laduma, discussing what is widely regarded as the most significant fixture on the South African football calendar. The match is set to take place at FNB Stadium, and Mokoena is anticipating a compelling contest between the two rivals.

Ouaddou is also a fan of his player

Mokoena openly acknowledged that he has been thoroughly impressed by Mokobodi ever since the midfielder arrived at the club back in July, and he fully expects the player to produce yet another standout performance in the Soweto Derby.

"Coach (Abdeslam) Ouaddou's lineup changes all the time, but you are looking at a Mokobodi, who's done well," Mokoena remarked in his exclusive interview with this publication. He went on to explain that Mokobodi will enter this Derby brimming with confidence, though he cautioned that the occasion may well be the player's first Derby appearance—if he is not mistaken—and that this could potentially introduce a degree of nervousness into his game. Mokoena also offered the view that Tshepang Moremi may likewise have an important part to play in the encounter.

In addition, Mokoena conceded that Bucs right-back Bulelani Sigomoshe, who is new to the club and in line to make his Soweto Derby debut, could be in for a torrid time. "I'm just worried about the right back of Orlando Pirates. Is he going to cope? Because he hasn't settled in really well, you know. Interesting to see," he added.

Mokoena further noted that Chiefs might have some confidence after beating TS Galaxy 3-0 in the Carling Knockout. But with the form of the Pirates, it would be an uphill battle for Chiefs. Chiefs look a little bit… they are not yet there. It might be a draw, according to the way I'm feeling, looking at how the build-up is towards this game.

Hazem Mlhem |

Editorar, en

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

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Orlando Pirates

Kaizer Chiefs

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