Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Ethan Chislett might be a key addition into the Soweto derby line up after his impressive display in the 2-1 loss against Stellenbosch FC.
Image: AFP
Kaizer Chiefs head into the Soweto derby on the back foot as they prepare to battle Orlando Pirates following a confidence-shaking 2-1 Betway Premiership defeat to Stellenbosch FC on Tuesday.
Amakhosi find themselves in their first league title race in a long while after they ended the past two seasons outside the top8. They will also be aiming to snap a four-match losing streak when the two sides meet at the FNB Stadium this weekend (3.30pm kick-off).
Here, Obakeng Meletse highlights five players who will be under the spotlight in this high-stakes encounter.
Pressure continues to mount on the young midfielder, particularly after the setback against Stellenbosch — a fixture Chiefs were widely expected to win.
Shabalala has often carried creative responsibility during difficult periods for the club, but his recent struggles in front of goal have drawn scrutiny.
Having started the previous match on the bench, questions remain whether that decision was tactical or made with the derby in mind. Regardless, he is likely to shoulder significant expectation and will need to deliver a decisive contribution, whether starting or coming off the bench.
Kaizer Chiefs forward Flavio da Silva.
Image: BackpagePix
With seven goals in all competitions this season, Silva presents one of Chiefs’ biggest attacking threats. His combination of his deceptive pace, aerial strength and relentless work rate makes him a difficult opponent for any defence.
However, breaking down one of the league’s most resolute backlines will require sharpness and and his best game. Much of Chiefs’ attacking hopes could rest on his ability to convert opportunities and his link up play.
Chislett was handed his first start against Stellenbosch after a lengthy spell without regular action since joining the Glamour Boys at the beginning of the campaign.
He delivered a steady performance that could justify another opportunity in the derby. The real test, however, will be whether he can reproduce that level under the immense pressure and intensity that defines this fixture, especially with Chiefs desperate to regain momentum.
Without much competitive football in the last few months, questions around his fitness will also come into the picture.
Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Brandon Petersen . Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
Petersen’s role could prove decisive. Chiefs have endured a difficult run in recent weeks, and defensive stability will be crucial against a dangerous Pirates attack.
Petersen has been central to the team’s defensive improvement this season, helping reduce their goals conceded compared to the previous campaign. His leadership, vocal presence and intolerance for complacency will be just as important as his shot-stopping ability in a match of this magnitude.
Kaizer Chiefs forward Ashley du Preez.
Image: Backpasgepix
Scoring goals has remained a challenge for Chiefs, who currently average just one goal per league match. Du Preez, short on consistent game time in recent months, was handed a start against Stellies but endured another frustrating outing marked by a costly missed opportunity.
That miss may have dented his confidence further, but the derby presents a chance for redemption. With encouraging signs from the team’s first-half display in midweek, the former Stellenbosch forward could be given another opportunity — but time is running out for him to make a telling impact and avoid further costly errors.
* Obakeng Meletse is Independent Media’s multi-sport writer. For fresh video content, follow our YouTube channel The Clutch