Arsenal Legend Ian Wright Hails Soweto Derby as One of the Best in World Football

• Arsenal legend Ian Wright has described the Kaizer Chiefs vs. Orlando Pirates rivalry as “unbelievable” and ranked it among the world’s top football derbies
• Chiefs and Pirates are set to clash twice in May — first in the Betway Premiership this weekend and again in the Nedbank Cup final on May 10
• Kaizer Chiefs are eyeing a turnaround under coach Nasreddine Nabi, while Orlando Pirates prepare for life after coach Jose Riveiro, who is expected to leave at the season's end

Former England and Arsenal striker Ian Wright has described the Soweto Derby between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates as “unbelievable” during a panel discussion alongside Gary Neville and Roy Keane.

Speaking on the platform The Gameplan, Wright praised the electric atmosphere and intensity of the South African football rivalry, placing it among the world’s greatest derby matches.

His comments come ahead of two high-stakes meetings between the PSL giants in May—one in the Betway Premiership and the other in the Nedbank Cup final.

Read also

Riveiro on the move? Al Ahly eye Pirates coach in unexpected switch

Chiefs show signs of revival under Nabi

Kaizer Chiefs have endured a painful 10-year trophy drought, but there is renewed optimism at Naturena under head coach Nasreddine Nabi. The Tunisian tactician has guided Amakhosi to the Nedbank Cup final, their first major final since his arrival.

Nabi’s progress has sparked belief among supporters and management alike, with a potential trophy seen as the beginning of a long-overdue resurgence.

Pirates brace for Riveiro exit

Orlando Pirates, on the other hand, are preparing for life after José Riveiro. The Spanish coach has guided the Buccaneers to silverware in every season since his arrival but is set to leave the club at the end of the campaign.

With the CAF Champions League and domestic honours still within reach, Riveiro’s final weeks could shape how his tenure is remembered. Speculation has linked Wydad Casablanca coach Rulani Mokwena with a possible return to Mayfair, should he part ways with the Moroccan giants.

Read also

Soweto Derby blow: 5 Key Kaizer Chiefs players ruled out of crucial Pirates showdown

What’s next for the Soweto giants?

With two Soweto Derbies coming up, first this weekend in the Betway Premiership, then on May 10 in the Nedbank Cup final, the battle lines are drawn.

Both encounters promise fireworks as pride, silverware, and bragging rights hang in the balance. For South African football lovers, May is shaping up to be a month to remember.

Head-to-head history slightly favours Pirates

Total matches played: 45 Kaizer Chiefs wins: 14 Orlando Pirates wins: 16 Draws: 15 Goals scored: Chiefs: 43 Pirates: 49 Average goals per match: 2.04

Al Ahly target Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro

Briefly News previously reported that Egyptian giants Al Ahly have approached Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro with a lucrative offer to take over as head coach next season following Marcel Koller’s exit.

Riveiro, who has won five trophies with Pirates and is chasing the Betway Premiership and Nedbank Cup titles, is set to leave the Soweto club when his contract expires in June. Al Ahly reportedly initiated negotiations soon after their CAF Champions League semi-final elimination by Mamelodi Sundowns.

Source: Briefly News