Men for the big time

Today’s DStv Premiership Soweto derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, promises to be fascinating. A key factor that makes the clash between the two Soweto giants intriguing is the race for a second-place finish, meaning maximum points will be the order of the day for both camps. Tshepo Ntsoelengoe looks at three key players from each team that could change the game when the teams meet at FNB Stadium.

Relebohile Mofokeng

Mofokeng has long proved himself as a key player for the Buccaneers, with many appearances under his belt already in the senior team, The 19-year-old scored his first league goal on Wednesday against Cape Town Spurs in a 1-1 draw.

Wandile Duba

Duba got his first start for Chiefs in their 1-0 win against Golden Arrows, lighting up the game with a superb goal, a strike that has already placed him in the spotlight. The 19-year-old forward has proved to be a good finisher in the Diski Challenge team and getting a goal against the Buccaneers could cement his place in the senior team.

Patrick Maswanganyi

Maswanganyi is very influential as to how Pirates attack and has played most of the games at the club so far this season, which shows exactly how important he is in Jose Riveiro’s line-up. He can score and create goals with his intelligent passes.

Keagan Dolly

The midfielder might not be back to his best yet, but the derby is one game a player like Dolly tends to step up in. This is a game where he has a chance to regain the trust of the supporters after a lukewarm period of form. His experience will also play a huge part in the team, particularly in guiding the youngsters.

Evidence Makgopa

The lanky forward has gained a lot of confidence since his display at the Afcon with Bafana Bafana. He continues to try to prove himself to the Bucs fans and scoring against Chiefs, like he did with the winner in the reverse fixture, will certainly help.

Ashley du Preez

The striker might be missing a lot of chances, but he continues to be a threat to many teams. His speed is a nightmare for defenders. This is where Chiefs could certainly hurt Pirates, since the Pirates’ defence is not known to be that quick. Chiefs will just hope Du Preez can find a clinical finish to any opportunities that come his way.