Orlando Pirates midfielder Deon Hotto is set to make history in the Soweto derby against Kaizer Chiefs, scheduled for Saturday at 3:30 pm at the FNB Stadium. The Namibian-born player has been an integral part of the Pirates team, and his appearance in the derby could see him join the list of notable players with a remarkable record in the Premier Soccer League (PSL). Hotto has made 16 home appearances for Pirates since October 2020.
Hotto's consistency and dedication have earned him a spot in the Pirates starting lineup, with 10 starts and four appearances as a substitute in his 16 home games. He has contributed to the team's success, providing five assists and helping Pirates secure eight wins. Notably, Hotto has not received a red or yellow card in any of his home appearances since 2020, demonstrating his discipline on the field.
If Hotto takes to the field, it will mark his 17th consecutive appearance for Pirates, making him the first player to achieve this feat under coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. This milestone also puts him in contention to become one of the top players with the most consecutive home appearances for Pirates. Currently, Happy Jele holds the record for most home appearances for Pirates with 28 games.
The Soweto derby is one of the most highly anticipated matches in South African football, with a rich history dating back to 1972. This encounter will be the 186th meeting between Pirates and Chiefs, with the two teams having a long-standing rivalry. In their previous 80 home games in the PSL, Pirates have secured 27 wins, while Chiefs have won 23, with 30 draws.
Hotto's performance in the derby could see him join the list of top players with notable records in the PSL. The midfielder is still short of the record for most home appearances, held by Siphiwe "Shabba" Tshabalala, who played 31 games for Chiefs between 2007 and 2018. Other notable records in the PSL include Thembinkosi Lorch's five goals in home games, the most by any player.
The upcoming Soweto derby promises to be an exciting encounter, with both teams eager to secure a win. Pirates coach Jose Riveiro and Chiefs coach Stuart Baxter have both had success in home games, with five wins each, the most by any coach in the PSL. The match will be a crucial test for both teams, with bragging rights and pride on the line.
As the two teams prepare to face off, fans are eagerly anticipating the outcome. With Hotto poised to make history and the rich history of the Soweto derby, this encounter promises to be an unforgettable experience for players and spectators alike. The match will provide an opportunity for players to make their mark on the PSL and etch their names in the record books.
Key points
- Deon Hotto set to make 17th consecutive appearance for Orlando Pirates
- Hotto needs 12 more home appearances to equal Happy Jele's record
- The Soweto derby has a rich history, with 186 meetings between Pirates and Chiefs since 1972
