Kaizer Chiefs have been preparing for their upcoming Soweto Derby against neighbours and rivals Orlando Pirates with the same focus and intensity they do for each game.

However, according to Chiefs midfielder Siphiwe Tshabalala there are a few aspects of a match against the Buccaneers that sets it apart from other fixtures: “It’s huge when we face each other. There is a great history behind the teams and the tradition, the rivalry, the success of both teams and the huge followings that each team has – that makes this a game big in all aspects.”

A veteran of more than 18 Absa Premiership Soweto Derby matches, the midfielder has enjoyed a fair amount of success against Pirates, contributing to five goals in his last six Derby league games – scoring once and making four assists.

Of his love for the Derby, ‘Shabba’ said: “It’s the kind of game where players with big match temperament succeed. Against Pirates we always have to bring our A-game. I enjoy playing against them and look forward to Saturday’s game.”

The Chiefs winger also has special memories from his 27 previous meetings with Pirates: “There are three games against Pirates that have been particularly memorable. First of all, the 3-0 win in the 2010/11 Telkom Knockout final – that was an amazing moment. We also beat them that same season 3-1 in a league game.”

The third match came in the following season. “We lost the MTN8 final 1-0 to Pirates,” Tshabalala continues, “but we got our revenge a few weeks later, beating them 2-1 in a league game. That was also a memorable moment.”

As an experienced Soweto Derby warrior, ‘Shabba’ is quick to lend advice to young players and Derby rookies: “I try to help in whatever way I can. The guys must remain focused and not get carried away by the occasion of the rivalry. They must also stay away from social.”

He further added: “Just keep calm, focus on the build-up, do all your hard work in training, get plenty of rest, don’t get overwhelmed by the atmosphere when arriving at the stadium and, once the game kicks off, do the basics correct. Once you get the feel of the game, you can get into it and go forward.”

Tshabalala has had his fair share of bruising encounters against the Buccaneers and he’s anticipating Saturday’s game to be another high tempo game: “Both teams have quality squads. Pirates, despite having drawn their last three league games, can inflict major damage on their opponents. In the Derby form really counts for nothing.”

Furthermore on Saturday’s opponents, the Chiefs midfielder commented: “They are good ball players. They have been impressive offensively. We also have been in a good way recently and while we are wary of them, we will continue doing what has worked for us and we will look to build on what we have achieved so far.”