Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou and Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz have shared their thoughts ahead of Saturday’s Soweto Derby at FNB Stadium, with both sides looking to claim bragging rights and valuable Betway Premiership points.
The match kicks off at 15:30, with Pirates second on the standings with 22 points from eight games, while Chiefs occupy fifth place with 14 points. Both teams remain unbeaten in the league.
Ouaddou believes Pirates must continue improving despite their recent success, which includes a 3-0 league win over TS Galaxy and a similar victory over Milford FC in the Carling Knockout.
We have to accept this position of being favourites because we are the champions. We have to embrace it,” Ouaddou said.
The Pirates coach stressed the need to address weaknesses quickly ahead of the derby.
We will analyse the things that we did well and the things that we can improve. And we need to improve them quickly.
“We don’t have time in football. If I’m waiting until December to improve these things, maybe it’s too late.”
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Da Cruz, meanwhile, believes Chiefs are adapting to his philosophy but need to become more clinical in front of goal.
We’re having confidence in our model game but not in the efficiency and I hope we get ready and since this evening, we’re going to recover and we will prepare the game for this Saturday,” he said.
Chiefs have five league draws so far, and will be looking to turn their performances into victories.
Captain Brandon Petersen made it clear that Amakhosi are determined to win, regardless of the expectations surrounding the fixture.
We want to win this derby, whether we are underdogs or not. We are going in there for a win,” Petersen said.
Young midfielder Mfundo Vilakazi has also emphasised the importance of taking chances and blocking out the pressure of the occasion.
Pirates captain Nkosinathi Sibisi echoed his team’s ambitions, saying the Buccaneers are targeting maximum points.
“We are looking forward to the derby, and we are going in for three points,” Sibisi said.
Derby history and match-day arrangements
The rivalry remains balanced in the PSL era, both teams boast 18 league wins and 24 draws since 1996/97.
Pirates won their February 2026 league meeting 3-0, while their most recent league encounter in April ended 1-1. Chiefs.
With Saturday’s match sold out, supporters have been urged to arrive early and use public transport where possible. Road closures and access restrictions around FNB Stadium are scheduled to begin at 10:00, with stadium gates also opening at that time.
Stadium Management South Africa director Bertie Grobbelaar warned that only supporters with valid tickets would be allowed access to the stadium precinct.
No valid, scannable ticket, no entry,” Grobbelaar said, adding that having a match ticket would not automatically allow private vehicles through restricted roads.
JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla encouraged supporters to consider park-and-ride services to ease congestion around the venue.
Special Rea Vaya services will also operate for the derby. Motorists not attending the match are advised to avoid the stadium precinct and use alternative routes.