As fans gear up for one of South Africa’s biggest football showdowns—the Soweto Derby between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates—there’s already some off-field drama.

This Saturday’s clash promises excitement, but both teams will take the field without key players due to suspensions.

And that’s not the only twist.

Orlando Pirates Lose a Defensive Anchor

Orlando Pirates will have to cope without defender Nkosinathi Sibisi for the first derby match.

Sibisi picked up his fourth yellow card of the season during the team’s unexpected 1-0 loss at home to Sekhukhune United.

That caution triggered a one-match ban, making him ineligible for this weekend’s league fixture against Chiefs.

The good news for Pirates fans?

Sibisi will return in time for the second Soweto Derby, which is set to take place on 10 May 2025—a much-anticipated Nedbank Cup final between the same fierce rivals.

Chiefs Hit Upfront as Duba Joins the Suspension List

Kaizer Chiefs are also dealing with their own suspension headache.

Wandile Duba, the energetic forward, will be sitting out the PSL edition of the Soweto Derby this Saturday.

Like Sibisi, he received his fourth yellow card—his coming in Chiefs’ 2-1 defeat to Marumo Gallants.

This means Duba will also be available for the Nedbank Cup final, but not for this weekend’s fixture.

Chiefs fans will be hoping the rest of the frontline steps up in his absence.

Chiefs Dealing with a Deeper Blow

The situation is even more challenging for Amakhosi, who are set to miss five players in total for Saturday’s derby.

While Duba is one of them, there are additional squad concerns due to suspensions and injuries—further thinning the options for coach Cavin Johnson.

This could force the Chiefs’ coaching team to make some tough tactical choices ahead of such a high-stakes match.

Time to Test the Bench Strength

With both teams forced into lineup changes, it’s a perfect opportunity for lesser-used players to rise to the occasion.

For Pirates, the big question is: Who should fill the gap left by Sibisi at the back?

Chiefs fans are wondering the same about Duba’s replacement upfront.

It’s moments like these that often turn fringe players into heroes.

All eyes will be on the team sheets as match day approaches.