Orlando Pirates are continuing to shift the balance of power in the Soweto Derby after extending their unbeaten league run against Kaizer Chiefs to seven matches with a 2-1 victory at FNB Stadium.
The rivalry between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs has produced some of the biggest moments in South African football, but recent results suggest that the Buccaneers are increasingly taking control.
Pirates strengthened their position in the historic rivalry after beating Amakhosi 2-1 in the latest Soweto Derby.
The victory extended their unbeaten run against Chiefs in league matches to seven games, highlighting the growing gap between the two sides in recent encounters.
Across all competitions, Pirates have won 10 of their last 18 meetings with their Soweto neighbours, while Chiefs have struggled to match that record.
Amakhosi’s most recent victory over Pirates came in May 2025, when they defeated their rivals in the Nedbank Cup final. However, the Glamour Boys have found it difficult to maintain that success in subsequent meetings.
Pirates gaining ground in the historical rivalry
Despite their recent struggles, Kaizer Chiefs remain ahead of Orlando Pirates in the overall head-to-head record.
According to the statistics provided, Amakhosi have recorded 75 victories against Pirates’ 50, showing that Chiefs still hold the historical advantage.
However, the picture becomes different when looking specifically at the Premier Soccer League era.
Since the PSL was established in 1996, the two clubs have met 64 times in domestic league and cup competitions.
Pirates have won 27 of those encounters, compared with 23 victories for Chiefs, while 14 matches have ended in draws.
The figures underline how the Buccaneers have gradually narrowed the gap and moved ahead in the PSL-era rivalry.
How Orlando Pirates changed the Soweto Derby narrative
For many years, Kaizer Chiefs enjoyed the upper hand in the rivalry, particularly during the 1980s when the Glamour Boys were among the strongest teams in the country.
However, the balance began shifting during the 1990s as Pirates increasingly challenged their neighbours for domestic honours.
That change has become more evident in recent seasons, with the Buccaneers producing a consistent run of positive results against Amakhosi.
Pirates have also enjoyed success in domestic competitions and established themselves as regular contenders on the African stage.
Their recent derby performances add another dimension to that progress, reinforcing the perception that the traditional balance of power between the Soweto giants is changing.
Nevertheless, Chiefs’ historical record remains a reminder that the rivalry is far from settled.
Can Kaizer Chiefs stop Pirates’ derby dominance?
The latest defeat will leave Chiefs supporters hoping that their team can find a way to reverse the trend.
Although Amakhosi remain ahead in the overall head-to-head statistics, Pirates currently have the momentum and confidence that come with a sustained run of positive results.
The next meeting between the two sides will provide another opportunity for Chiefs to respond and remind their rivals that the Soweto Derby is never predictable.
For now, the Buccaneers can celebrate another important victory, while Chiefs face the challenge of restoring their pride in one of South African football’s fiercest rivalries.
Do you believe Orlando Pirates have become the dominant force in the Soweto Derby, or can Kaizer Chiefs turn the tables and reclaim their bragging rights?
