Four Kaizer Chiefs Stars at Risk of Missing Crucial Soweto Derby
Kaizer Chiefs could find themselves without four key players in the highly anticipated Soweto Derby against Orlando Pirates on May 3. With the club fighting for a top-eight finish and still in contention for silverware, the possible absence of influential figures like Wandile Duba and Inacio Miguel presents a major concern for coach Nasreddine Nabi.
Key Players Walking a Disciplinary Tightrope
Chiefs’ squad selection for the upcoming games will require careful management, as several players are just one yellow card away from suspension. Striker Wandile Duba, who has been instrumental with five goals this season, is among those at risk. He is joined by defensive stalwart Inacio Miguel, experienced winger Pule Mmodi, creative midfielder Mduduzi Shabalala, and forward Tashreeq Morris—all of whom have accumulated three yellow cards.
If any of these players receive another booking in the upcoming matches against Chippa United or Marumo Gallants, they will be ineligible to face the Buccaneers in the Soweto Derby. This dilemma places Nabi in a difficult position, as he must balance squad rotation with the need to win crucial games.
A Pivotal Period for Amakhosi
Before the derby, Chiefs have a packed schedule, starting with a high-stakes Nedbank Cup semi-final clash against Mamelodi Sundowns at Loftus Versfeld. A victory would keep their hopes of ending a decade-long trophy drought alive. After that, they face two vital league matches where every point is crucial in their bid to secure an MTN8 qualification spot.
Orlando Pirates, meanwhile, will be looking to complete a league double over their rivals, having won the first Soweto Derby of the season by a narrow 1-0 margin. Chiefs, however, will be eager for revenge, and missing their key players could make that task significantly harder.
What Next for the Glamour Boys?
With their squad depth set to be tested, all eyes will be on how Nabi and his technical team manage the next few games. Resting at-risk players could help ensure their availability for the derby, but every match leading up to it is a must-win.
Chiefs fans will be hoping their stars avoid suspension, as they will need all their firepower to stand a chance against their fierce rivals in one of South African football’s biggest fixtures.
