MBABANE – Over 100 emaSwati supporters are gearing up for the iconic Soweto Derby between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates this Saturday, February 28, 2026.
Regarded as Southern Africa’s most prestigious sporting fixture, the 94 000-capacity venue will host a clash ranked among Africa’s top three derbies. Yet, despite the fierce rivalry on the pitch, the event maintains its reputation as the ‘Friendly Derby.’ Unlike the segregated, high-tension atmospheres of Cairo or Casablanca, Soweto traditionally sees rival fans sitting side-by-side, husbands in the black and white of Pirates often flanking wives draped in the gold of Chiefs.
Phephile Dlamini, the spokesperson for the Eswatini Kaizer Chiefs Supporters Branch, confirmed that at least 44 of their members are making the trek. This branch has been a staple of the local football scene since 2015, following the King’s Super Cup.
“We began planning for this Soweto trip in December 2025,” Dlamini noted, adding that fans paid in instalments to cover the E1 200 cost for transport, accommodation and match ticket. “Watching the game live is an amazing experience. We network with branches across Africa, visit Naturena to meet players and purchase original team replicas.”
While Orlando Pirates Supporters Group Chairman Zama Tsabedze was unavailable for comment due to international travel, sources confirm a ‘strong contingent’ of Eswatini-based ‘Buccaneers’ is also Johannesburg-bound.
The stakes are historically high. Pirates currently hold a slender three-point lead at the top of the Betway Premiership, though they are being hunted by Mamelodi Sundowns. Meanwhile, Chiefs sit eight points behind their rivals with two games in hand, looking to slash that lead before Saturday’s 3:30 pm kick-off. For the travelling emaSwati, this 400km journey represents the ultimate pilgrimage of African football.
Leave a comment