Soweto Derby combined XI exposes Chiefs' struggles as Pirates dominate selection

IOL News

02-05-2025

Kaizer Chiefs-Orlando Pirates Combined XI Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates will go head-to-head in a crucial league encounter in Johannesburg this weekend. Photo: Graphic
Image: Graphic
Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs will go head-to-head in the first of back-to-back Soweto derbies this weekend.
With a lot on the line, both teams will be desperate to claim all three points from the clash, which promises to be one of the most exciting in a long time.
Pirates are in a fight for the title with Mamelodi Sundowns, and a win over their neighbours could see them keep the pressure on the champions.
Chiefs, on the other hand, will start stringing more victories together if they're to avoid a second bottom half finish in as many seasons.
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Ahead of the crucial encounter at FNB Stadium, IOL Sport puts together a combined XI. As expected, the team is dominated by players from Orlando Pirates.
Kaizer Chiefs-Orlandi Pirates Combined XI:
GK: Sipho Chaine (Pirates) – If Ronwen Williams didn't exist, Sipho Chaine would be Bafana Bafana's number one and the best goalkeeper in the country. While Chiefs have a very unsettled goalkeeping situation, Pirates have the luxury of knowing they can trust on Chaine week in, week out.
RB: Deano van Rooyen (Pirates) – Deano has been ever-present at right back since completing the move from Stellenbosch FC. He's very reliable on defence, and gives the club an extra attacking option on that side of the pitch.
CB: Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Pirates) – He's everything you need in a centre back. He's big, he's strong, and has good positional awareness. And he's still only 20. He's played just a handful of games this season, but he's made a massive impression every time he' been on the park. We are witnessing the first steps of a once-in-a-lifetime generational player.
CB: Thabiso Sesane (Pirates) – Sesane has impressed this season when covering for injured skipper Tapelo Xoki. His form for the Season Robbers has attracted the interest of European clubs, who are keen to secure the 24-year-old services.
LB: Deon Hotto (Pirates) – In the twilight years of his career, Hotto has had to drop back into defence and he's transitioned well. His experience and calming influence is a key weapon for Pirates, and he can be an attacking threat from out wide.
DM: Makhehlene Makhaula (Pirates) – Since joining Orlando Pirates, Makhaula has added depth and experience to the midfield. His presence provides a stabilising effect, especially in high-pressure matches.
Orlando Pirates-Kaizer Chiefs combined XI Orlando Pirates-Kaizer Chiefs combined XI: Photo: Graphic
Image: Graphic
CM: Thalente Mbatha (Pirates) – Thalente Mbatha has been a pivotal figure in Orlando Pirates' midfield this season. His performances in the engine room have been instrumental in both domestic and continental competitions.
CM: Patrick Maswanganyi (Pirates) – Tito is Pirates' creative spark in the middle of the pitch who can spot an open player in space, and
RW: Mduduzi Shabalala (Chiefs) – The young Shabalala is one of Chiefs' impressive youngters who has, at times, found himself having to carry the team. Pirates' Mohau Nkota was the other option, but Shabalala has done more this season.
LW: Relebohile Mofokeng (Pirates) – Hands down one of the best players in the country right now. And he's still only 20. President yama2000 is an attacking threat whenever he has the ball at his feet, and will have a big say on who win the derby on Saturday.
ST: Tshegofatso Mabasa (Pirates) – It says a lot about Chiefs' attacking options up front that the only other player who could rival Mabasa is his teammate Evidence Makgopa. Holds the ball up well, and creates chances for those playing around him. And, he can chip in with a goal or two from time-to-time.
IOL Sport
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