Soweto Derby Rescheduled

Orlando Pirates have confirmed a new date for the highly anticipated Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs.

Originally scheduled for April 25, the Premier Soccer League’s flagship fixture will now take place on Sunday, 26 April, at FNB Stadium to coincide with the public holiday.

Pirates Look to Repeat Historic Dominance

The Buccaneers enter this clash as the home team, looking to replicate their stunning performance from February. In that encounter, Pirates crushed Amakhosi 3-0—marking their largest league victory over their rivals in 25 years.

Abdeslam Ouaddou’s men dominated the field, with goals coming from Tshepang Moremi, Oswin Appollis, and Evidence Makgopa. All three stars are currently on international duty, representing Bafana Bafana in upcoming friendlies against Panama at Moses Mabhida Stadium (Friday) and DHL Stadium (Tuesday).

A Critical Twist in the Title Race

With domestic football currently paused for the FIFA international break, Orlando Pirates sit at the summit of the Betway Premiership. They hold a narrow one-point lead over Mamelodi Sundowns, having amassed 51 points from 22 matches.

The Buccaneers recently signaled their championship intent with a 5-0 demolition of TS Galaxy. However, the “ding-dong” battle remains on a knife-edge. Mamelodi Sundowns—fresh from securing their CAF Champions League progress with a 3-2 aggregate win over Stade Malien—still hold a crucial game in hand.

184th Derby Braced for Capacity Crowd

The rescheduled April date marks the 184th meeting between the Soweto giants. Given the high stakes of the league title race and the festive holiday atmosphere, organizers expect a total sell-out at the iconic FNB Stadium.