Can Duba spearhead Chiefs’ attack in Soweto Derby? Johnson offers insights

Kaizer Chiefs interim coach Calvin Johnson has weighed in on teen sensation Wandile Duba’s readiness to lead Amakhosi’s attack in the Soweto Derby.

Chiefs will renew their rivalry against a well-known foe, Orlando Pirates, in the DStv Premiership on Saturday, 9 March.

The two Soweto giants will meet for the historic 180th time, with kickoff at FNB Stadium at 15H30.

Last time out against Golden Arrows, Duba was a hero, netting the only goal of the match in his first start of the season.

Duba’s wonder goal wasn’t just a personal milestone; it marked several firsts for the team. Not only was it his debut PSL goal, but it also broke Amakhosi’s scoring drought for 2024 and secured their first win in three games across all competitions.

In the post-match reaction after the Arrows game, the 19-year-old sent a stern warning to the Sea Robbers confidently saying, “They [Orlando Pirates] should expect me, I’m coming”.

CALVIN JOHNSON ON WANDILE DUBA PLAYING IN THE SOWETO DERBY

The mentor says Duba has been more than ready to play such a big match for the club.

All the 65-year-old hopes for is for the young attacker to leave a mark in the Soweto Derby. That’s finding the back of the net if he gets his opportunity to showcase his talent on the field.

“[Wandile Duba] He’s been probably preparing for this [opportunity] for the last three years,” Johnson.

“He’s been preparing mentally to play a [Soweto] Derby, he’s been preparing mentally to play for Kaizer Chiefs alone. He’s been preparing himself in the [DStv] Diski Challenge to score goals.

“What a better time for him, if he gets an opportunity to come in the derby and score a goal. Then he will be just cementing his place as far as football is concerned”.

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