Veteran Makhehlene Makhaula steals show in Pirates’ derby victory over Chiefs

Makhehlene Makhaula – at 35-year-old, was the oldest player in Saturday's Soweto Derby – and was deservedly showered with praise by his coach, José Riveiro, who felt his Player of the Match award was fully justified.

Riveiro remarked, "He was something else. He was pushing the team in the bad moments. He was helping a lot to collect those second balls and carried the ball forward."

Makaula, writes Herman Gibbs, was certainly one of five players who were the leading performers in Pirates' close 1-0 win over arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs on Saturday.

Makhehlene Makhaula

Operating as a defensive midfielder, Makaula demonstrated outstanding composure, even as the team's defence was occasionally exposed due to Pirates' high press. He worked tirelessly throughout the match, containing Chiefs' attacks in the final third and neutralising their threats, proving to be a serious disruption for the opposing midfield.

Deon Hotto

The 34-year-old Namibian made a significant impact at left-back, a position that has recently caused Pirates some concern. In the first half, he was steadfast in defence, neutralising Chiefs' attempts to penetrate his channel. His transformation into a more attacking wing-back in the second half put the Chiefs' defence under immense pressure, almost securing a goal late in the game.

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Nkosinathi Sibisi

This 29-year-old central defender ensured the derby maintained its competitive spirit and did not become a ‘Cocomelon Derby’ despite the threats posed by many youngsters making their debuts. Sibisi’s selection over Tapelo Xoki proved wise, as he demonstrated a no-frills approach that established his presence in central defence, particularly when fellow defender Thabiso Sesane showed vulnerability.

Bruce Bvuma

The 29-year-old goalkeeper was easily Chiefs' standout performer. After making several critical saves in the second half, many fans believed he was deserving of the Player of the Match accolade. Bvuma registered five significant saves to his credit, overshadowing the two by his counterpart, Chaine Sipho. He was ultimately beaten by Pirates' Patrick Maswanganyi, whose audacious Panenka penalty clinched the victory for the Buccaneers.

Mduduzi Shabalala

The 21-year-old attacking midfielder showcased his potential with a polished performance on the right flank. Coach Nasreddine Nabi admitted he fielded Shabalala despite fitness concerns. Shabalala's cheeky display, which Pirates managed to contain, underscored his big-match temperament amidst the high-pressure atmosphere of the Soweto Derby, suggesting he will play a significant role in Chiefs' future. | Independent Media Sport