Watch VideoThuso Phala backs Mduduzi Shabalala as Kaizer Chiefs’ potential game-changer against Orlando Pirates

Mduduzi Shabalala is tipped by Thuso Phala to be the difference-maker in Saturday’s Soweto derby at FNB Stadium. FormerKaizer Chiefsmidfielder Thuso Phala believesMduduzi Shabalalahas the spark to turn the tide in the upcoming Soweto derby, backing the young attacker to shine and etch his mark in what promises to be one of the most electrifying showdowns between these rivals in recent memory. Long regarded as the biggest fixture on the domestic calendar, this year’s edition carries added weight.

Unlike in recent seasons,both sides remain firmly in the title race, raising the stakes as they look to strengthen their bids to end lengthy waits for league glory when they meet at FNB Stadium on Saturday (kick-off 3.30pm). With so much riding on the result, moments of individual brilliance could prove decisive — and Phala believesShabalala is ready to rise to the occasion. WhileOrlando Pirateshave enjoyed the upper hand in several recent derby meetings, Chiefs claimed the last encounter — a painful defeat for the Buccaneers in last season’s Nedbank Cup final.

That result reinforced the notion that form often counts for little in this fixture, where execution on the day and capitalising on key moments usually determine the outcome. The Buccaneers may have history on their side, but they head into this clash with a slight dent in confidence following consecutive setbacks — a league defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns and a penalty shootout exit in the Nedbank Cup at the hands of lower-division side Casric Stars. Those results have disrupted their momentum and added urgency to Saturday’s showdown.