Former Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Brighton Mhlongo gave his prediction for the upcoming Soweto derby that is set to take place this weekend, on Saturday, 25 February.
The 54th Soweto derby in the PSL era is set to be played this Saturday at the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg.
This fixture sees two of the biggest clubs in the PSL, Kaizer Chiefs and Pirates, lock horns in pursuit of three points and bragging rights.
In the last five derbies, Pirates have fallen short to their bitter rivals, Chiefs, on four occasions. Their last win against Amakhosi was in the 2020/21 season, in January.
When the two giants met earlier this season, Chiefs walked away with the three points from a superb long-range goal from Yusuf Maart, winning 1-0 at the FNB stadium.
However, Chiefs’ form has been the most inconsistent between the two Soweto sides since then.
In the last five games in all competitions, The Glamour Boys only won two compared to the four wins of the Sea Robbers.
Former Buccaneers’ goalie, Mhlongo, having been part of this fixture before, believes that form plays no part whenever these two giants meet in the derby.
Even though Mhlongo is aware of the unpredictability of the derby, he hopes that his former side will show up on the day and collect maximum points and bragging rights of the derby.
MHLONGO’S PREDICTION FOR THE DERBY
“The stats always show when it comes to the derby, it’s all about contrasting form. It is all about who wants in on the day.
“But usually, the team that comes from a good result tend to be complacent when they go into the game, which I am hoping is not the case this weekend for Pirates.
“Chiefs come into this game as wounded lions with backs against the hall. The coach is under pressure, and the players are under pressure to perform and deliver. The question is, can they do a double against Pirates?
“It is possible. However, with what Pirates is working on building now, I feel like they are hungrier.
“They play as a team. The team cohesion is there. I mean, with the return of Thembinkosi Lorch as well, it makes it more exciting.
“It brings that exciting element, it brings about the personality within the squad, so I see Pirates getting this one,” concluded Mhlongo.
Chiefs will host Pirates in the 54th derby in the PSL era on Saturday, 25 February, at the FNB Stadium at 15:30.
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