The 102nd edition of the Soweto derby couldn’t have come at a better time as Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates will be looking to regain momentum in Saturday’s highly anticipated match-up.

SoccerClub writer Byron Lukas predicts Kaizer Chiefs’ starting XI for their Soweto derby clash with arch-rivals Orlando Pirates.

Chiefs come into the derby full of confidence following a smash-and-grab type of victory over Baroka FC this past Saturday.

Amakhosi currently sit third in the DStv Premiership standings with 32 points from 18 games, three games less than fellow Soweto giants Orlando Pirates, who is in fourth place with also 32 points.

Coach Stuart Baxter’s charges will have to do without the services of their Serbian marksman, Samir Nurkovic, who is suspended after receiving his fourth yellow card against Baroka. However, Bernard Parker returns to the squad giving Baxter another option in front.

Meanwhile, Pirates comes into the clash following a 0-0 draw with Cape Town City in the DStv Premiership on Wednesday. The Buccaneers will be without Thembinkosi Lorch after he suffered a hamstring injury.

The match at the Orlando Stadium is scheduled to kick off at 3:30 pm.

Predicted Kaizer Chiefs starting XI:

Goalkeepers: Brandon Petersen

Defenders: Eric Mathoho, Daniel Cardoso, Thabani Dube

Midfielders: Njabulo Blom, Reeve Frosler, Kearyn Baccus, Bernard Parker

Forwards: Keagan Dolly, Leonardo Castro, Khama Billiat.