Soweto Derby still a highlight for SA fans

THE Soweto Derby between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates remains a highlight for football fans across South Africa. The Carling Black Label Champion Cup further makes the Derby extra special because of its unique way of empowering fans.

This year’s game changing innovation for the Carling Black Label Champion Cup means fans do not only select their starting line-up but will also get to dictate which formation is best suitable for their teams on match day.

Since its inception in 2011, this is a game that has been played in front of a sold out FNB Stadium and this year’s spectacle scheduled for July 29 promises to be another exciting occasion, with the anticipation already building amongst the fans.

At the forefront of tactical planning for this classic clash are the Champion Coaches, two lucky fans who become part of their beloved team on match day and are tasked with helping their side lift the coveted trophy as part of the Carling Black Label Champion Cup coaches’ experience.

The Champion Coaches will not just spend a day with their sides, but also get to speak to the players and help with the preemptive decisions, including plotting the correct formation to give the team the best chance of victory.

Sidney Molepo was the Champion Coach for Kaizer Chiefs in 2015 and says it was a life-changing experience that opened his eyes as to what goes into match-day preparation.

“It was simply amazing, there is no other way to describe it,” Molepo says.

“Going from being a fan who’s used to sitting in the stands to being in the dugout on match day and issuing instructions to players was incredible.’’

He says being the Champion Coach was not only life changing for him but also for his community. Molepo emerged from the experience with a coaching certificate, which now allows him to coach developmental teams across the country.

Also entrenched into the spirit of the Carling Black Label Champion Cup derby experience are the clubs’ very own super fansr.

“It is always a great occasion for the supporters,” says Orlando Pirates supporter Mthandazo Nkomo.”

Kaizer Chiefs super fan Goodman Sholo says he has never missed a Carling Derby clash.

“It is the one game that kicks off the season, showcasing new players and giving us a taste of what lies ahead in terms of our favourite teams performances. If you think of the great players who have shone in this fixture, it is always a who’s who of the top South African talent.

Sholo believes this year’s Carling clash will go down in history books as the one to remember.

The four formations provided to the fans all allow their teams to play the solid 4-4-2, the pressing 3-5-2, the attacking 3-4-3 and the ambitious 4-3-3.

To cast their votes, fans can do so by purchasing a Carling Black Label beer and dialling *120*660*. They then enter their unique underliner code and then#. Entry is Free on USSD or alternatively can go to www.carlingblacklabel.co.za to further engage on the campaign through weekly questions.

The 2017 edition will not only give South African fans a taste of the derby experience. The brand has further extended their reach by affording neighbours Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho, Swaziland and Zimbabwe to also engage in the campaign.

Ticket sales for have opened and are available at Computicket in Shoprite/Checkers stores countrywide, or at www.computicket.com.