Kaizer Chiefs dominate the combined Soweto Derby XI in terms of players with the most minutes played in the DStv Premiership this season, although there is no place for goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune or striker Bonfils-Caleb Bimenyimana.
The Amakhosi are set to take on bitter rivals Orlando Pirates when the two sides meet in the 176th edition of the famous Soweto Derby at the FNB Stadium on Saturday.
Chiefs currently occupy fifth position in the DStv Premiership standings, one position and one point behind Pirates, who in turn could climb as high as second on the log with a win over the weekend.
The Buccaneers could be without the services of goalkeeper Richard Ofori, who is still recovering from a muscle injury, which would come as a blow to their chances as the Ghana international has been the club's No. 1 between the sticks this season.
READ | Soweto derby sold out as fans flock back to stadiums
Despite his recent spell on the sidelines, Ofori has managed 865' of action this season which is the most by any 'keeper across the two clubs, earning him a spot in the combined XI ahead of Chiefs Itumeleng Khune, who is also a doubt for the match.
In defence, Chiefs are well represented by centre-back Zitha Kwinika who has featured in all but one match, which he missed by suspension, and who is joined by teammate Reeve Frosler.
Pirates' Nkosinathi Sibisi, who has featured in every league match thus far, and Bucas captain Innocent Maela, reverting to the left-back position, round out the back four.
In midfield, the ever-impressive Njabulo Blom has continued to solidify his status as one of the best deep-lying midfielders in the league and walks into the starting XI alongside Yusuf Maart, who has enjoyed a strong maiden campaign at Naturena.
Similarly, Miguel Timm has been a standout player for Orlando Pirates since joining the club from Marumo Gallants at the start of the season and takes his place in the middle of the park to complete the three-man midfield.
READ | Pirates coach hands key advice to in-form Saleng
Arthur Zwane's consistency in selection this season means Chiefs dominate the (admittedly) make-shift attacking line with Keagan Dolly and speedster Kgaogelo Sekgota flanking Ashley Du Preez in attack.
The combined Soweto Derby XI in terms of DStv Premiership minutes played:
GK: Richard Ofori (Orlando Pirates) – 865'
RB: Reeve Frosler (Kaizer Chiefs) – 739'
CB: Zitha Kwinika (Kaizer Chiefs) – 915'
CB: Nkosinathi Sibisi (Orlando Pirates) – 1042'
LB: Innocent Maela – (Orlando Pirates) – 945'
DM: Njabulo Blom (Kaizer Chiefs) – 676'
CM: Miguel Timm (Orlando Pirates) – 805'
CM: Yusuf Maart (Kaizer Chiefs) – 907'
RW: Kgaogelo Sekgota (Kaizer Chiefs) – 763'
LW: Keagan Dolly (Kaizer Chiefs) – 877'
ST: Ashley Du Preez (Kaizer Chiefs) – 754'
Formation: 4-1-2-3
You must be signed in to post and read comments. Click here to register.
