Kaizer Chiefs host Orlando Pirates in one of the biggest derby matches in Africa and the world at FNB Stadium at 15:30 this Saturday.
The Buccaneers, currently top of the log, and Amakhosi, in fourth place, will both be determined to take maximum points in the title race, but the fierce rivalry will ultimately define the game.
In the build-up to the showdown, Phala, who previously represented Amakhosi, Mamelodi Sundowns, Platinum Stars and SuperSport United, revealed how the Soweto derby is first felt through phone calls.
THUSO PHALA ON PHONE CALLS BEFORE THE SOWETO DERBY
He says while people can go months without calling you, derby week suddenly brings calls from both Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs supporters.
“The vibe around the game was special. Derbies are about more than just the match. It’s about the occasion of the two big teams meeting,” Phala said on SuperSport TV.
“The rivalry. The calls you get from Pirates fans, the calls you get from Kaizer Chiefs fans. Some people only call you during the derby. The significance of the game is so big.
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“The experienced players always told me it was the match that mattered the most. All the other games in the season don’t matter as much.
“It was the most important game of the season. A derby can make you or break you. Scoring goals and becoming Player of the Season comes second if you don’t perform in the derby. Kaizer Chiefs don’t want to lose to Orlando Pirates, and the feeling is 100% mutual.”
THUSO PHALA’S FIRST DERBY AS A KAIZER CHIEFS PLAYER
“When the fixtures come out for the new season, it’s the first game you check. My first derby as a player was unforgettable.
“It was before the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The delegates were there. It was in Durban. It was sold out a week before. I was obviously nervous, but that happens before any big game. If you don’t feel nervous, then you’re not into the game.
“It was a great emotional experience to be part of something like that,” Phala concluded.
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