Orlando Pirates have a crucial stretch of matches ahead, with a CAF Champions League assignment followed by one of the biggest fixtures on the South African football calendar.
The Buccaneers remain in contention on multiple fronts despite their recent MTN8 final disappointment and will now turn their attention to continental competition before facing Kaizer Chiefs in the Soweto Derby.
Pirates face African Stars in Champions League
Pirates’ immediate focus is on their CAF Champions League qualifier against African Stars on Friday, 23 October.
The Buccaneers take a 1-0 aggregate advantage into the second leg, with kick-off scheduled for 19:30.
The defending Betway Premiership champions will be determined to finish the job and secure their progress in the competition.
A clean sheet would also continue a remarkable defensive record for Abdeslam Ouaddou’s side, who have reportedly kept 11 clean sheets in 15 competitive matches this season.
Soweto Derby next for Pirates
Once their continental assignment is out of the way, Pirates will have little time to rest before another massive fixture.
The Buccaneers face Kaizer Chiefs on Saturday, 31 October at 15:30 in the latest instalment of the Soweto Derby.
The fixture promises plenty of intrigue, particularly with Chiefs struggling to turn draws into victories in the Betway Premiership.
Chiefs also have continental business
Before facing Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs have their own important CAF assignment.
The Glamour Boys meet Red Arrows on Friday, 23 October at 18:00 in the second leg of their CAF Confederation Cup first preliminary-round tie.
Chiefs will be looking to overturn a 1-0 first-leg deficit before shifting their attention to the Soweto Derby.
The club have drawn five of their last six Betway Premiership matches, making the upcoming continental fixture particularly important as they look to build momentum.
Two giants, one massive Soweto Derby
With both clubs involved in continental action before the derby, the way they handle their respective matches could have a major influence on the Soweto Derby.
Pirates will want to maintain their momentum and defensive consistency, while Chiefs will be desperate to find a winning formula.
Mark these dates in your diary:
Friday, 23 October — African Stars vs Orlando Pirates, 19:30
Friday, 23 October — Kaizer Chiefs vs Red Arrows, 18:00
Saturday, 31 October — Orlando Pirates vs Kaizer Chiefs, 15:30
Who will have the advantage going into the Soweto Derby — Pirates or Chiefs?
