THE FUSE

Kaizer Chiefs are on course to secure a third-place finish in the Premiership, marking what could be their best season in six years.

Amakhosi now turn their attention to a blockbuster clash against their arch-rivals Orlando Pirates in the second Soweto Derby of the season.

The highly anticipated encounter will take place at FNB Stadium on Sunday at 15:00.

This fixture will be the 185th official meeting between the two Soweto giants since their first clash in 1970. While Chiefs hold a historical edge in overall victories, Pirates claimed bragging rights in their most recent encounter at the end of February, adding extra intensity to this weekend’s showdown.

Kaizer Chiefs to play Orlando Pirates

Chiefs will be eager to snap their five-match losing streak against the Buccaneers. A victory could all but secure a third-place finish with several matches still to play, while another defeat would extend a worrying trend against their fiercest rivals.

Despite this, Amakhosi remain well-positioned to finish inside the top eight for the first time in three seasons. Two more wins should be enough to guarantee their place and secure a shot at the R10 million prize on offer next season.

Off the field, Kaizer Chiefs are reportedly interested in signing midfielder Morgan Margeman. However, his representative, Ntobatsi Masegela, has confirmed that no formal approach has been made.

“There’s nothing with Chiefs at the moment. Maybe they are still coming. If it has to happen, it will happen, we won’t close the door. But for now, he is contracted to Siwelele, so they (Chiefs) know what to do,” Masegela told the Siya crew.

Will Kaizer Chiefs keep co-coaches?

Uncertainty also surrounds the club’s technical team. Chiefs have yet to make a decision on the futures of co-coaches Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze, whose contracts expire in June. The duo have been in charge since September, and it remains to be seen whether the club’s hierarchy will retain them or appoint a new head coach.

Meanwhile, several players could be on their way out of Naturena. Gaston Sirino, George Matlou, and Pule Mmodi are all nearing the end of their contracts in June. Matlou, who is currently sidelined for the rest of the season, appears unlikely to feature for Kaizer Chiefs again.