Saturday, 28 February at FNB Stadium sees Kaizer Chiefs host bitter Soweto rivals Orlando Pirates for the first derby of the season, before the second clash in May.
With both clubs in the running for the Betway Premiership title, the Sea Robbers in first place and Amakhosi in fourth, the result could influence who becomes champions.
Also read: Pirates coach hints at R20 million striker dilemma
HOW A YOUNG THUSO PHALA CHOSE KAIZER CHIEFS OVER ORLANDO PIRATES
Kaizer Chiefs have not won the title in 11 years, while Orlando Pirates last lifted it 14 years ago.
Speaking ahead of the game this weekend, former Glamour Boy Phala revealed how he defied his father’s influence and his community to support Kaizer Chiefs instead of Orlando Pirates.
“My early memories of the Soweto derby are from when I was growing up. I used to go to the stadium with my dad,” Phala said on SuperSport. “He was an Orlando Pirates fan, but I fell in love with Kaizer Chiefs.
“I just liked how they played from a young age. I really liked their style. I also knew it separated Soweto. I am from Orlando myself, but I supported Chiefs. I had dreams of playing in the game one day.
“I just loved how they played. I loved the players and everything. Maybe I just wanted to be rebellious against my dad and chose the other side.”
Also read: Released Kaizer Chiefs star scores 8 goals in 9 games
MOST MEMORABLE DERBIES
“My most memorable derby was when Orlando Pirates beat Kaizer Chiefs 4-1 at the old FNB Stadium. I was there.
“Then there was a 2-0 game. The legendary Doctor Khumalo scored a penalty very late in the match, in stoppage time. The fans burned the stadium. It was not a good thing, but it showed the true significance of this game.
“It is a match that, as a family, you always look forward to watching. Becoming a player and ending up playing in that match as a Kaizer Chiefs player was something special,” Phala added.
WHICH TEAM DO YOU EXPECT TO WIN THE GAME BETWEEN KAIZER CHIEFS AND ORLANDO PIRATES?
Please share your thoughts in the comments block below.
