In what is the first Soweto Derby of the season which sees Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs go head-to-head in a DStv Premiership clash, we take a look at Amakhosi's predicted starting XI against the Buccaneers.
Scroll through the gallery to view the R117m players that are not available for the clash
Last season saw Pirates largely dominate the fixture in both league and cup action. Then coach Josef Zinnbauer's side managed to beat Chiefs on three occasions by 2-1, 2-0 and 3-0 scorelines respectively.
Now, with Amakhosi set to do duty at their hunting ground Stuart Baxter and his troops will be out for redemption and end their three-match winless streak in the Soweto derby.
We take a look at how Amakhosi could line up for the encounter:
Goalkeeper: Daniel Akpeyi
While he has given all three of Chiefs goalkeepers a chance this season, Baxter has maintained his faith in the Nigerian who has been between the sticks in their last three consecutive matches and is expected to continue against Pirates. The 35-year-old will be crucial if Chiefs are to get anything from the encounter.
Defenders: Reeve Frosler, Eric Mathoho, Daniel Cardoso, Njabulo Blom
Baxter is expected to field the same back four that suffered a 1-0 defeat to Stellenbosch FC midweek, with the only change being that of Sifiso Hlanti. As confirmed by Baxter, the experienced defender has been ruled out for the season after picking up an Achilles injury, although Frosler is more than capable of slotting into that role, although Sibusiso Mabiliso and Happy Mashiane could also fill in if needs be.
Midfielders: Cole Alexander, Njabulo Ngcobo, Pathushedzo Nange
Baxter has switched things up in midfield quite a bit. A game of this magnitude could largely be won and lost in the middle of the park, which is why the coach will be looking to field his strongest midfield available to him.
Attackers: Keagan Dolly, Bernard Parker, Khama Billiat
The attacking trident of Billiat, Dolly and Parker has yielded results for Baxter in the past and he will be hoping for more of the same in the derby. With Dolly in red-hot form and Parker and Billiat showing signs of resurgence, Baxter will be hoping his front three will come good this afternoon.
