The Soweto Derby has never needed a marketing campaign. Long before kick-off, the fixture sells itself through history, rivalry and the promise of moments that linger long after the final whistle. Yet even by its lofty standards, this latest instalment had a little extra star power. Here are the five standout points from the Soweto Derby.
1. THIERRY HENRY IN SA
The League sponsors took advantage of their partnership with France legend Thierry Henry to bring him to SA for the Soweto Derby. He was probably the biggest draw for the event, and he was not disappointed with the experience.
2. THE CROWDS
Well, the “sold-out” signs went up within an hour of tickets going on sale. Not that there was any doubt about the appetite for this game. Demand, without exception, always outweighs supply.
The only thorny issue here is the crowd’s inability to get to the match on time. This happens almost every time the two Soweto giants collide. Not surprising that there were murmurs about some who were not allowed entry into the stadium despite having match tickets.
3. ON TO THE GAME
The two teams went into the Soweto Derby on the back of impressive wins in the Carling Knockout Cup. Pirates went into the game as favourites, having been unbeaten in six league games against Chiefs (W5 D1) prior to Saturday’s encounter.
The Buccaneers have now gone seven league games unbeaten against Chiefs for the first time since a nine-game unbeaten run between March 2015 and February 2019 (W3 D6). Chiefs’ last league win over Pirates was on the 25th February 2023, with Olisah Ndah (89’) scoring an own goal.
4. THE GOALS
It was the Soweto Derby number 186 in official meetings across all competitions. Pirates were first on the scoreboard thanks to Mbuthuma’s 24th-minute goal. Chiefs responded six minutes later to draw level, but Moremi’s 55th-minute strike secured the points and bragging rights.
Probably the biggest talking point from the Derby was the match officiating, with question marks around the two Pirates goals. Analysis of the goals and the referee’s performance will continue long into the week, but that will not alter the result as Pirates continue their race to defend the title.
5. OUADDOU CELEBRATIONS
Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou’s exuberant celebrations at the end of Saturday’s 2-1 derby triumph over Chiefs came with a sense of relief, given the pressure going into the game.
Ouaddou sank to his knees at the final whistle, pumping his fists and screaming as Pirates moved to the top of the Betway Premiership standings, even if only for a few hours.
“It’s not easy to do this job, especially at a big club like Pirates,” explained Ouaddou, who also danced with celebrating fans after the final whistle. “I’m driven by excellence and always want to push my players to be better.
Sometimes on the touchline you see the emotions of somebody who really wants to win.”
Abdeslam Ouaddou and his players made sure to celebrate after winning the Soweto Derby 🔥 #SSDiski | #BetwayPrem https://t.co/yCPlf0YfTC
— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) November 1, 2026