SASoccerMag writer Byron Lukas predicts Orlando Pirates’ starting XI for their highly-awaited Soweto derby clash with Kaizer Chiefs at the FNB Stadium on Saturday, November 6.

Soccer fans around the globe might be spoilt for choice this coming weekend as two explosive derby matches take place in Manchester and in Milan.

However, in South Africa, fans of the Sea Robbers and the Mighty Amakhosi will be glued to their screens as Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs do battle in the 101st edition of the Soweto derby.

Orlando Pirates will go into the match full of confidence following their 2-1 victory over Sekhukhune United FC in the DSTV Premiership on Tuesday. The Buccaneers currently sit in sixth place with 14 points from nine games, eight points behind log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns who recently won the MTN 8 trophy against a much improved Cape Town City Team.

Pirates will also be looking to redeem themselves from their Carling Black Label Cup penalty shootout defeat to their Soweto rivals earlier this year.

Meanwhile, Chiefs who are currently in seventh place were dealt a major blow as defender Sifiso Hlanti has been ruled out of the match with an Achilles tendon injury.

Kick-off is scheduled for 3:30 pm.

Here’s the predicted Orlando Pirates starting XI:

Goalkeeper: Siyabonga Mpontshane

Defenders: ​​Abel Mabaso, Happy Jele, Thulani Hlatshwayo, Paseka Mako,

Midfielders: Fortune Makaringe, Wayde Jooste,​Linda Mntambo, Goodman Mosele

Forwards: Tshegofatso Mabasa, Deon Hotto