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Olisa Ndah, Orlando PiratesBackpage

Predicting Orlando Pirates' XI to play Kaizer Chiefs in Premier Soccer League's Soweto Derby - Olisa Ndah in for suspended Nkosinathi Sibisi?

Orlando Pirates play Kaizer Chiefs in the Premier Soccer League on Saturday at the FNB Stadium.
The Sea Robbers lost against Sekhukhune United on Wednesday, and another defeat this weekend might end their title ambitions.

Here, GOAL selects what could be Bucs' strongest starting XI and predicts how coach Jose Riveiro might set up his team for the Soweto derby.

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  • Sipho Chaine, Orlando Pirates, March 2025.BackPagePix

    GOALKEEPER: Sipho Chaine

    This is a massive game for Pirates, and coach Riveiro can't bench his trusted soldier.

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  • Deano van Rooyen, Orlando PiratesBackpage

    RIGHT-BACK: Deano Van Rooyen

    Since joining Pirates, Van Rooyen has been solid and will want to make an impact on Saturday. Always defends with zeal to the last minute

  • Paseka Mako, Orlando PiratesBackpage

    LEFT-BACK: Paseka Mako

    Injuries have not been kind on Mako, but when fit, he keeps his place in the starting team. It will give Hotto a chance to play in his preferred position.

  • Tapelo Xoki, Orlando Pirates Backpagepix

    CENTRE-BACK: Tapelo Xoki

    The skipper is suspended for this game, and with Olisa Ndah not fully fit, Xoki - who has been battling consistency, is set to take his place.

  • Mbekezeli Mbokazi, SuperSport United vs Orlando Pirates, March 2025Backpagepix

    CENTRE-BACK: Mbekezeli Mbokazi

    This will be the first PSL Soweto Derby for the 19-year-old. The best he can do is help his team get the bragging rights.

  • Makhehleni Makhaula and Jose Riveiro, Orlando PiratesBackpage

    CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Makhehleni Makhaula

    This is a massive game that requires experienced midfielders. The 35-year-old Makhaula has been delivering consistently in the defensive role. The remaining matches are vital and need his presence.

  • Thalente Mbatha, Orlando PiratesBackpagepix

    CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Thalente Mbatha

    The Bafana Bafana international is just one yellow card away from suspension which might see him miss the Nedbank Cup final.

    However, the Soweto Derby is crucial, and Riveiro might opt against leaving him out.

  • Patrick Maswanganyi, Orlando PiratesBackpage

    ATTACKING MIDFIELDER: Patrick Maswanganyi

    He scored the winning goals in the previous Soweto Derby, but has not been at his best recently.

    Tito is still dangerous in the final third, which might see him get his chance.

  • Relebohile Mofokeng, Orlando PiratesBackpage

    RIGHT ATTACKER: Relebohile Mofokeng

    Mofokeng has been a key player for Pirates, but the four goals and five assists this season don't tell the whole story. More is needed.

  • Deon Hotto, Orlando PiratesBackpage

    LEFT ATTACKER: Deon Hotto

    Just like we saw against Sekhukhune United, the Namibia international might be deployed in the advanced role after playing at left-back for most of the season.

    He has three goals and as many assists this season.

  • Evidence Makgopa, Orlando PiratesBackpage

    CENTRE-FORWARD: Evidence Makgopa

    It seems Makgopa has done enough to win Riveiro's trust in the final third ahead of Tshegofatso Mabasa.