The biggest soccer spectacular in South African football, the Soweto Derby, is just 48 hours away. PSL defending champions, Kaizer Chiefs, will be out to close the gap on the log leading challengers, Orlando Pirates, when the two archrivals meet on Saturday in the eagerly awaited Castle Premiership game at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg on 29 October 2005. The kickoff will be at 15h45.

This season’s derby has been made all the more special by the fact that Kaizer Chiefs overtook the Buccaneers at the final hurdle to clinch the PSL title last season. Pirates at one stage had amassed a lead of more than ten points and looked certain to win the title, but Chiefs tightened its grip on the league trophy and left Pirates clutching defeat from the jaw of victory.

Coach Ernst Middendorp, who is no stranger to African derbies, will be making his official Soweto Derby debut leading Kaizer Chiefs in this critical encounter. “I have been through the Asante Kotoko Hearts of Oaks games in Ghana, so I know something about a major rivalry on the African continent” says Middendorp. He also added that he was not daunted by the prospect of 80,000 fans in the stadium, or Pirates present form in the league by stating; “As a coach or player you look forward to these occasions. I revel in these kinds of games and there is nothing to be afraid of.

Pirates have been playing good soccer, but Golden Arrows showed that they can be beaten”. He concluded by saying: “we are confident and will continue to be champions. Our players know what they are capable of and will rise to the occasion”.

Kaizer Chiefs has a number of exciting activities in store to entertain the crowds. The build up starts with a Kaizer Chiefs Fun Bus sponsored by Intercape. The Fun Bus will be traveling in and around Soweto on Saturday morning filled with fans and celebrities to hype the game. Fans must SMS “chiefs” or “pirates” to 34383* for a chance to win R30,000 sponsored by Vodacom, or be invited for an amazing experience on the Kaizer Chiefs Fun Bus.

The first 15,000 fans to arrive at the stadium are set to receive caps, courtesy of the teams’ sponsor Vodacom. The curtain-raiser features Kaizer Chiefs Legends taking on Orlando Pirates Masters, where the likes of Doctor Khumalo, Ace Khuse, Lucki Stalliano, Shakes Kungwane, Teenage Dladla, Linda Buthelezi and many others will showcase their skills. The curtain-raiser Man of the Match will win R1,000 and donate maize meal to a charity of his choice in Soweto, all sponsored by Iwisa.

Kwaito stars, Chippa & Mzambia, and superstar artist Mandoza will provide musical entertainment. There are other exciting pre-game activities planned for the day, so everyone must arrive early to enjoy the full Soweto Derby experience. Gates open at 09h00, the curtain-raiser starts at 13h30, and the Derby kicks-off at 15h45.

All roads lead to FNB Stadium for Saturday’s action – but only if you are in possession of a ticket. A variety of Kaizer Chiefs Hospitality Packages are available for those that want to enhance their stadium experience. Log onto www.kaizerchiefs.com, or call (086) 112-4722 for bookings and more information.