They face Orlando Pirates in the third installment of the Carling Black Label at the sold out affair at FNB Stadium. It starts at 3pm.
In last weekend’s clash, AmaKhosi were given a rude awakening by the recently Port Elizabeth based side, although in the end- they showed why they’re still the super-power institution by winning the game 4-2.
Unfortunately, Chiefs lost one of their mobile and attacking midfield mastermind Siphiwe Tshabalala due to injury, which rules him out of the derby.
Now enters George Maluleka, who scored a brilliant goal last week.
Maluleka-another midfielder par excellence-insists getting psyched up for his first Soweto derby has not been a challenge, as the mere mention of this fixture automatically triggers him to be ready for battle.
Since arriving at Naturena in January from SuperSport United, Maluleka did not play a role in the final derby of the season in March, but this time he is guaranteed a starting place on Saturday.
“I wouldn’t say it is a challenge to get psyched up, because we are automatically prepared for such a contest. You don’t need to be reminded about what this fixture means,” says Maluleka.
“We all know that it is a Soweto Derby, there is a lot at stake, and there are bragging rights to play for in this one,” he says, adding that it would still be sweet to win it.
“In a way it would set the tone, but at the same time we don¹t need to get ahead of ourselves because what is important is to take each game as it comes,” says the former Ajax Cape Town midfielder.
From Bucs camp, Oupa Manyisa who bagged an award recently will have to show why he’s still popular amongst the fans.
The pint-sized industrial-attacker has been the cog of the team; and as expected should carry the hopes of fellow teammates on his shoulders.
For Bucs they will be vying for the second cherry on top -having won the cup previously.
We expect more goals since all the striking departments (both sides) have been beefed up.
Meanwhile, SAFA will announce the eagerly awaited new coach tomorrow.
