Kaizer Chiefs defender Rushwin Dortley has expressed his delight after making a timely return to action ahead of the highly anticipated Soweto Derby against arch-rivals Orlando Pirates.
Dortley brought an end to an 18-month injury spell when he started for Amakhosi in their 3-0 victory over TS Galaxy in the Carling Knockout Cup Round of 16 at FNB Stadium on Tuesday, 27 October.
Prior to Tuesday’s clash, the 24-year-old centre-back had been sidelined since March 2025 due to a severe knee injury that required surgery and extensive rehabilitation.
Stepping into the starting line-up in place of Inacio Miguel against the Rockets, Dortley put in a solid shift, helping the Naturena-based outfit keep a clean sheet and book their spot in the quarter-finals.
With the Glamour Boys set to lock horns with Pirates in a crucial Betway Premiership fixture this weekend, Dortley’s return serves as a massive boost for head coach Fernando Da Cruz’s defensive options.
RUSHWIN DORTLEY ON HIS RETURN TO ACTION
Reflecting on his lengthy absence and his comeback ahead of the biggest fixture on the South African football calendar, Dortley admitted the road to recovery was tough, but expressed gratitude to be back on the pitch.
“You know, it’s been difficult being off the field for so long. But it feels very, very good being back, being able to help the team, being able to represent the badge again,” said Dortley.
“So, being back before the derby, it’s amazing for me. I like playing derbies, and it’s one of the biggest games in football in the world, I think, one of the biggest in Africa.”
The former Cape Town Spurs FC defender further highlighted that the convincing win against Galaxy has brought huge confidence into the squad ahead of Saturday’s clash.
“The mood is good after the win [against TS Galaxy]. We needed this win before the derby, and the mood is good. It’s just for us to go out there, implement what the coach wants us to do, and just to play to the best of our abilities,” he added.
The Soweto Derby between Chiefs and Pirates is scheduled for Saturday, 31 October, at the FNB Stadium, with kick-off set for 15:30 CAT.
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