“It’s a Six-Pointer” — Mandla Masango Fires Soweto Derby Warning to Chiefs and Pirates
Former Kaizer Chiefs right winger Mandla Masango has looked ahead to this weekend’s 184th Soweto Derby between Amakhosi and Orlando Pirates, describing the clash as a “six-pointer” in the Betway Premiership title race.
Chiefs and Pirates will lock horns at a sold-out FNB Stadium on Saturday (February 28), with both sides desperate to keep pace with reigning champions Mamelodi Sundowns.
Speaking to Sizanazo365.co.za, Masango said fans of both teams should anticipate an open contest with goals.
“It’s a six-pointer because both teams know that a draw won’t be a suitable result if they want to dethrone Sundowns. We can expect a game with goals, as both teams are looking to bounce back from recent losses,” said Masango.
Both sides head into the derby wounded. Chiefs suffered defeat to Zamalek SC in the CAF Confederation Cup before falling to Stellenbosch FC in their most recent league outing. Pirates, meanwhile, lost to Sundowns in the league and were then knocked out of the Nedbank Cup by first-division outfit Casric Stars.
Despite the setbacks, Masango believes past results will count for little once the whistle blows.
“In derby matches, previous games play no role because the 90 minutes plus added time on the day are what matter. Some players are able to turn the pressure of such games into motivation,” he added.
Kaizer Chiefs legends Mandla Masango, Doctor Khumalo and Itumeleng Khune (Image: @KaizerChiefs/ X)
Masango highlighted Relebohile Mofokeng as a key figure for Pirates, while singling out Chiefs goalkeeper Brandon Petersen as crucial for Amakhosi.
“Mofokeng’s numbers are looking good leading into the derby. He’s been fantastic for Pirates. Petersen has also been playing well in recent games, keeping clean sheets for Chiefs. He will be crucial in the upcoming derby.”
On the Betway Premiership table, the Buccaneers occupy second place with 38 points from 17 matches, level on points and games with Sundowns, with only goal difference separating the sides. Amakhosi sit fourth on 30 points from 16 matches, two points behind third-placed Sekhukhune United.
Today’s clash marks the 184th meeting between the two South African football giants, adding another chapter to one of the continent’s most iconic rivalries.