Orlando Pirates co-coach Fadlu Davids admits the Soweto derby is not the same without fans.
OrlandoPirates take on Kaizer Chiefs at the Orlando Stadium on Saturday, where a win could see them move above their historical rivals and back into second place.
Amakhosi were 2-1 winners in the first round where a brace from Keagan Dolly canceled out a late Linda Mntambo strike.
Ahead of this weekend’s game, Davids says the continued absence of supporters in stadiums does have an impact.
“The supporters make the Soweto derby. Having experienced the last couple of derbies without an atmosphere, it’s completely different,” he said speaking to IOL.
“The derby fever is still there but the spectacle on the pitch is different. A hollow stadium makes it completely different.
“In the previous derbies where there were fans, you could not hear yourself speak. The players had to show their mental attitude. Small tactical elements can now be fixed with an empty stadium.”
