Soweto Derby To Take Centre Stage In 2026

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has announced the draft fixtures for the 2025/26 Betway Premiership, and the highly anticipated Soweto Derby between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates will only take place in 2026.

As it is still a draft and can still be changed before the fixtures are officially released, this will not be the first time the two Soweto giants have had their derby to be played the following year, as last season’s matches also took place in 2025.

The first leg of the derby is scheduled to take place on 28 February 2026, at the FNB Stadium, with the second leg set on 25 April, at the same venue.

The stakes are high for both teams, with Amakhosi looking to regain their dignity against their arch-rivals.

Last season, Chiefs lost both league matches against Pirates, contributing six points in the process.

The last time Chiefs won a league game against Pirates was in March 2023 under the guidance of coach Arthur Zwane, with a 1-0 victory thanks to an Olisa Ndah own goal in the 89th minute.

However, it’s not just about the league form; the Buccaneers will also be seeking revenge after the Chiefs beat them 2-1 in the final of the Nedbank Cup last season. The memory of that defeat will undoubtedly fuel Pirates’ determination to come out on top in the upcoming derby.

The Soweto Derby is always a highly charged encounter, with both teams boasting passionate fan bases and a rich history of competition.

The rivalry between Chiefs and Pirates is one of the most intense in South African football, with both teams having a massive following and a strong desire to succeed.

It is an indication that the Soweto Derby is more than just a game; it’s an event that brings the city to a standstill.

With the history and rivalry between the two teams, the stakes are always high, and the tension is palpable.

As the two giants of Soweto prepare to clash in 2026, fans can expect a thrilling encounter that will be remembered for years to come.