On Saturday, 28 February, FNB Stadium hosts the first Soweto derby of the season. Kaizer Chiefs face fierce rivals Orlando Pirates in a high-stakes clash. The teams will meet again in May for the second derby. Both clubs remain in the Betway Premiership title race.
Orlando Pirates lead the table, while Kaizer Chiefs sit fourth. Therefore, the result could shape the championship outcome. Chiefs last won the title 11 years ago. Pirates lifted the trophy 14 years ago.
Phala Explains Why He Supported Chiefs
Former Glamour Boy Thuso Phala shared his derby memories before the match. He explained why he chose Kaizer Chiefs over Orlando Pirates.
“My early memories of the Soweto derby are from when I was growing up. I used to go to the stadium with my dad,” Phala said on SuperSport. “He was an Orlando Pirates fan, but I fell in love with Kaizer Chiefs.
“I just liked how they played from a young age. I really liked their style. I also knew it separated Soweto. I am from Orlando myself, but I supported Chiefs. I had dreams of playing in the game one day.
“I just loved how they played. I loved the players and everything. Maybe I just wanted to be rebellious against my dad and chose the other side.”
Phala grew up in Orlando, a Pirates stronghold. However, he supported Chiefs and dreamed of playing in the derby.
Derby Moments That Still Stand Out
Phala also recalled unforgettable Soweto derby moments. “My most memorable derby was when Orlando Pirates beat Kaizer Chiefs 4-1 at the old FNB Stadium. I was there.
“Then there was a 2-0 game. The legendary Doctor Khumalo scored a penalty very late in the match, in stoppage time. The fans burned the stadium. It was not a good thing, but it showed the true significance of this game.
“It is a match that, as a family, you always look forward to watching. Becoming a player and ending up playing in that match as a Kaizer Chiefs player was something special,” Phala added.
He said families eagerly anticipate the derby every season. Later, playing in the match made the experience even more meaningful.
Flipcash is Your Trusted PayPal & Crypto Exchange Partner in Zimbabwe — WhatsApp +263 77 163 9263
The post Soweto Derby Showdown: Orlando-born star went against his father to support Chiefs appeared first on iHarare News.
