Former Orlando Pirates and Moroka Swallows coach Roger De Sa believes players should be allowed to showboat during Saturday’s Soweto Derby, provided their team is winning convincingly.

De Sa shared his views ahead of the highly anticipated clash between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, a fixture widely regarded as one of the biggest events on the South African football calendar. His comments have reignited debate over whether players should be free to display their skills and creativity during high-pressure matches.

Drawing from his own experience of the derby atmosphere, De Sa recalled his involvement in a memorable rivalry between Moroka Swallows and Orlando Pirates, explaining that showboating should depend on the scoreline.

“I played a Soweto Derby myself. A Swallows v Pirates match was massive in my time. You only do showboating if you are winning, and you are winning convincingly,” De Sa said.

His remarks suggest that he does not consider showboating disrespectful when a team has established a comfortable lead over its opponents.

Showboating, which involves tricks, fancy footwork and creative dribbling, has long been part of football. Such displays can entertain supporters, showcase individual talent and put opposing defenders under pressure.

However, the practice can also spark controversy, particularly during fiercely contested matches. Players and supporters may interpret certain tricks as disrespectful or an attempt to embarrass opponents, especially when the result remains uncertain.

De Sa’s position is that players should consider the match situation before attempting such moves. In his view, demonstrating flair is more acceptable when a team is comfortably ahead than when the contest remains closely balanced.

The Soweto Derby carries enormous significance for both Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, with supporters eager to see their teams secure victory and claim bragging rights.

As the two rivals prepare to meet, players will need to balance entertainment and individual expression with tactical discipline and respect for their opponents. While moments of skill can energise the crowd, they can also intensify emotions in an already heated rivalry.

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