Assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi has explained why he believes young players like Relebohile Mofokeng and Mohau Nkota will shine in the Soweto Derby when Orlando Pirates hosts Kaizer Chiefs.
The Soweto giants are set to lock horns for the first time this season in what will be a sold-out FNB Stadium. Interestingly, both teams go into this edition with much of their goals coming from their young players.
READ | Soweto Derby doubt for Pirates duo
Mofokeng has contributed the right goals and 11 assists across all competitions this season, while teammate Nkota has contributed six goals and two assists.
On the other side of the township, Mduduzi Shabalala has contributed four goals and two assists, as has Wandile Duba.
Speaking to media at Pirates' training base on Tuesday, Ncikazi threw his support behind Pirates' young players to take centre stage come Saturday.
"It's impressive what our team has done. In one match we played seven DDC [Dstv Diski Challenge] players and the opponents [Chiefs] are doing the same," he added.
"For me, I will say the experience they [the young players] have gathered from us playing in the Champions League and against the biggest teams in Africa, I think it's enough experience.
"I don't see them being overshadowed by the moment. We believe in them and the coach trusts them. If given an opportunity I'm sure they'll perform."
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The last the two giants met, Pirates walked away 3-2 winners thanks to a Monnapule Saleng brace and a Thabiso Lebitso strike. Chiefs scored twice through Ashley du Preez.
The match will kick-off at 15:30.