FourFourTwoSA writer Dylan Appolis takes a look back at the top five most memorable Soweto derbies between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates.
The Soweto giants head into the latest edition of the Soweto derby in third place with 35 points, trailing second place Pirates by a single point in the Absa Premiership standings.
The rivalry between the two side’s is considered as one of the most fiercely contested matches in African football which dates back to as early as 24 January 1970 when it all started.
1999-2000: Kaizer Chiefs 2-2 Orlando Pirates
Siyabonga Nomvethe scored one of the fastest goals in the history of the derby during the 1999-2000 campaign when he bagged a brace. However, Dennis Lots equalised a minute later before Phumlani Mkhize secured a point for Pirates with an equaliser 18 minutes from time.
2001-2002: Kaizer Chiefs 0-3 Orlando Pirates
The Buccaneers claimed their biggest victory over their rivals in the PSL era when the late Lesley Manyathela and Benedict Vilakazi terrorised the Amakhosi defence. Vilakazi set up Manyathela for the opening goal and completed his brace before the first half ended. However, Vilakazi rounded off the scoring to hand Pirates all three points at the FNB Stadium.
2007-2008: Orlando Pirates 2-2 Kaizer Chiefs
The battle between the late Senzo Meyiwa and Itumeleng Khune started when the two sides meet in November, both goalkeepers conceded twice, with Meyiwa getting beaten by the fastest derby goals to date when Mabhuti Khenyeza scored after 19 seconds before Excellent Walaza scored twice to hand Pirates the lead. But Arthur Zwane denied the Buccaneers maximum point to salvage a point for Amakhosi.
2010-2011: Orlando Pirates 1-3 Kaizer Chiefs
Zimbabwean striker Knowledge Musona proved to be the difference between the two sides when he bagged a brace, added to an own-goal by veteran Daine Klate. However, Pirates did managed to score a late consolation goal through Nigerian forward Ezenwa Otorogu.
2011-2012: Orlando Pirates 3-2 Kaizer Chiefs
The derby saw the return of Benni McCarthy, playing in his first Soweto derby since joining the Buccaneers. The Bafana Bafana all-time top scorer bagged a brace while midfielder Andile Jali added another. However. goals from Siphiwe Tshabalala and Lehlohonolo Majoro were not enough to complete Amakhosi’s comeback as the match ended 3-2 in favour of Pirates.
In every Soweto derby, there are always one-on-one clashes that highlights the game, and Saturday will be no different. Its definitely an occasion where the boys will be separated from the men.