Chaine on Brink of Pirates History Ahead of Derby Showdown – Josephs Questions Bafana Snub
All eyes will be on Sipho Chaine this Sunday as the Orlando Pirates goalkeeper stands on the verge of making club history in the Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs.
The highly anticipated Betway Premiership clash at the FNB Stadium (kick-off 3:00pm) offers Chaine the opportunity to make a single-season clean sheet record – a milestone that would further cement his status as one of the league’s standout performers this campaign.
Chaine has already matched the long-standing record of 17 clean sheets, previously held by Moeneeb Josephs. Another shutout on Sunday would see him set a new benchmark in Buccaneers history – and doing so in a Soweto Derby would add even greater significance.
In a fixture defined by legacy and pressure, the stage could not be bigger for the 27-year-old shot-stopper to etch his name into the club’s folklore.
Former Pirates and Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Josephs has thrown his full support behind Chaine, while also questioning his recent omission from the national squad by head coach Hugo Broos.
Speaking on the SoccerBeat Podcast, Josephs pointed to Chaine’s impressive numbers as clear evidence that he deserves greater recognition at international level.
“He picked up his 17th clean sheet. What more does a goalkeeper have to do to be seen?” Josephs said.
“If we’re going to take the best players to the World Cup, we have to look at the stats. And the stats tell you everything. This man has reached 17 clean sheets – it hasn’t been done before at Orlando Pirates. If we’re selecting the best, we must go with the ones performing on the field.”
Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine (Image: Orlando Pirates)
Chaine was notably left out of the squad for recent friendlies against Panama, raising eyebrows given his consistent performances throughout the season.
Beyond individual milestones, Sunday’s derby carries major implications in the Betway Premiership title race.
Pirates head into the clash full of confidence after defeating AmaZulu FC to move top of the table with 58 points from 25 matches. However, they remain locked in a tight battle with Mamelodi Sundowns, meaning every point is crucial in the run-in.
For Chiefs, the stakes are equally high. Amakhosi currently sit third on 46 points and will be desperate to close the gap after being held to a goalless draw by Polokwane City in their previous outing.
While the Soweto Derby always delivers drama, this encounter offers something extra – a chance for Chaine to make history, for Pirates to strengthen their title charge, and for Chiefs to solidify their position in the top three.
With legacy, pride and crucial points on the line, Sunday’s showdown at FNB Stadium promises to be more than just another chapter in South Africa’s biggest football rivalry.