As the scintillating Soweto Derby approaches, Kaizer Chiefs find themselves in a familiar battle—not just against Orlando Pirates, but against the injury curse that has plagued their squad in recent seasons.
Chiefs coach Nasredine Nabi faces an uphill climb as he plans to overcome the high-flying ‘Buccaneers’ in his Soweto Derby debut. The latest injury news centred around in-form striker Wandile Duba, has left many Amakhosi fans questioning.
Injury Concerns ahead of the Derby
Assistant coach Khalil Ben Youssef admitted the squad’s struggle with injuries to key players, including Edmilson Dove, Edson Castillo, Ashley Du Preez, and now Wandile Duba. These setbacks have forced constant tactical adjustments.
Key injuries:
- Edson Castillo (broken fibula, return late Feb 2025)
- Edmilson Dove (injured in July 2024)
- Ashley Du Preez (ongoing fitness issues)
- Wandile Duba (ruled out of the derby)
With an already injury ridden team, it has only disheartened fans, players and coaching staff alike. Duba’s injury in particular could not have come at a worse time. The 20-year-old striker has been one of the shining stars in this team and was guaranteed to impact the derby with his clinical finishing.
Derby Impact & Team Response
With Nasredine Nabi’s return from a 2 game suspension following a red card he received against Golden Arrows, there is much expectation from fans.
The injuries challenge Chiefs’ ability to field a strong team against an Orlando Pirates team firing on all cylinders. Despite this, the coaching staff remains determined to adapt and compete.
Coach Nabi spoke in the pre-match conference, emphasising the team’s desire to compete.
“We know that we are in the process of [rebuilding], but we don’t want to hide behind that and say we’ll not give our best, especially in a game such as the derby.
“That’s why we are confident that we are in a very good space to give a good performance on Saturday afternoon,” said the Amakhosi manager.
Fan Sentiment & Outlook
While some chiefs fans say AYEYE we are in trouble, others say Bring it on Buccaneers!
The game is guaranteed to be a thriller, with the match confirmed to be a sold out affair. With Chiefs limping into battle and Pirates charging forward, will this be the moment the Glamour Boys prove that class is permanent, or will the Buccaneers tighten their grip on Soweto supremacy?
For more team news, table standings & live score updates, visit https://www.psl.co.za/
Main Image: The South African
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