Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Jackson Mabokgwane eye Soweto Derby debut against Kaizer Chiefs

Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Jackson Mabokgwane is hoping to make his first Soweto Derby appearance this weekend.

The two Soweto giants are scheduled to clash in a titanic Premier Soccer League (PSL) encounter at the FNB Stadium on Saturday. 

Mabokgwane is eager to help the Buccaneers grab the bragging rights against Amakhosi in one of the biggest derbies in world football.

"Look, for me, the most important thing is the Pirates badge. It's not so much important about the individuals going into the match," Mabokgwane told the media. 

Mabokgwane, who is facing stiff competition in the Bucs goalkeeping department, did relatively well in the team's last two matches.

Despite having joined Pirates two seasons ago, Mabokgwane is yet to face Chiefs in the Soweto Derby. 

"The most important thing is the team and for us to get the result. So, of course I've played well in the past two games and I'm obviously ready to deliver [on Saturday]," he added. 

"But the most important thing is the team and not who is in the team," the former Mamelodi Sundowns and Bidvest Wits keeper said. 

Pirates have conceded just once in their last three matches in all competitions, and Mabokgwane is confident that his side will keep a sheet against Chiefs.

“We have been working hard on our defensive organisation. We are looking forward to keeping another clean sheet on Saturday,” he concluded.

With Brilliant Khuzwayo having recovered from a long-term injury, Pirates head coach Milutin 'Micho' Sredojevic has three available keepers, including Mabokgwane and Wayne Sandilands.

Siyabonga Mpontshane, who has been Bucs' first-choice keeper this season, picked up an injury earlier this month, and he will not be available for selection as he's still recovering.