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

31.10.26 09:30 South African Betway Premiership

Orlando Pirates

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Kaizer Chiefs

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Orlando Pirates dominate the market value rankings ahead of Saturday's Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs, with Oswin Appollis leading the list of the ten selected most valuable players from the two South African giants.

The rivals meet at Johannesburg's FNB Stadium on 31 October, with kick off scheduled for 15:30 local time, in a crucial Betway Premiership encounter.

According to Transfermarkt's 2026 /27 squad valuations, Pirates have eight representatives in the selected top ten, compared with just two from Chiefs.

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Who are the 10 most valuable Soweto Derby players?

The figures highlight the financial valuation gap between the two squads, with Pirates occupying the seven highest positions.

Here are ten of the highest valued players from the two club:

Oswin Appollis leads Orlando Pirates' valuable squad

Appollis remains the most valuable player across the two teams, with an estimated market value of €2.5 million.

The South African international joined Pirates from Polokwane City in July 2025 and quickly established himself as an influential attacking player.

His performances helped the Buccaneers win the 2025 /26 league title, although his current campaign has been interrupted by injury.

As Foot Africa previously reported, coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has adopted a cautious approach to Appollis' recovery.

The winger's availability for the derby therefore remains an important consideration.

Behind Appollis, midfielder Thalente Mbatha is valued at €2 million, while goalkeeper Sipho Chaine and captain Nkosinathi Sibisi each carry a €1.6 million valuation.

Chaine has been particularly impressive this season, recording seven clean sheets in his first eight league appearances.

Meanwhile, Tshepang Moremi has emerged as a major attacking threat.

The winger has scored six goals in ten appearances this season, including a brace against Milford FC in the Carling Knockout Cup.

His growing influence follows the departure of Relebohile Mofokeng to Union Saint-Gilloise, which increased the attacking responsibilities placed on Moremi and Appollis.

Kaizer Chiefs rely on Shabalala and Monyane

Kaizer Chiefs' highest valued players are Mduduzi Shabalala and Thabiso Monyane, both estimated at €1.2 million.

Shabalala 22 represents one of the club's most promising attacking talents while Monyane provides experience and versatility in defence.

The overall squad valuations underline the difference between the rivals.

Transfermarkt lists Orlando Pirates' squad at approximately €24.75 million, compared with €17.5 million for Kaizer Chiefs.

However, a higher estimated squad value does not necessarily translate into better performances during an individual match.

Chiefs remain unbeaten in the league this season, although their five draws in eight matches have prevented them from keeping pace with their rivals.

Will market value translate into Soweto Derby dominance?

Pirates enter Saturday's encounter in stronger league form, sitting second with 22 points from eight matches.

Chiefs occupy fifth place with 14 points.

As Foot Africa highlighted in its analysis of the rivalry's historical record, the two clubs have each registered 18 victories in their 60 league meetings since the introduction of the Premier Soccer League in 1996/97.

That extraordinary balance demonstrates why financial valuations and current league positions cannot determine the outcome of South Africa's biggest derby.

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

Related teams and leagues

Orlando Pirates

Kaizer Chiefs

South African Betway Premiership