Orlando Pirates have claimed another bragging right over Kaizer Chiefs after moving ahead of their Soweto rivals in total social media followers.

The Buccaneers now sit on about 10.9 million followers across Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X. Chiefs have roughly 10.44 million. That gives Pirates a lead of around 456 000 fans online. The gap is not huge, but in a rivalry this close, every number counts.

Chiefs still lead on two platforms. They have 5.9 million followers on Facebook against Pirates’ 5.6 million. On X they are ahead with 3.1 million compared to Pirates’ 2.1 million. Instagram is level, with both clubs on 1.2 million. The biggest difference is on TikTok. Pirates have two million followers there while Chiefs have only 244 000. That gap on the video platform has helped push Pirates into the overall lead.

This online win comes just after Pirates beat Chiefs in the 186th Soweto Derby. The three points from that match kept their unbeaten run going in the Betway Premiership. They are defending the league title and remain strong on the pitch as well.

For years the two clubs have fought for top spot in South African football. The battle has always been about more than points. It is about who has the bigger support, the louder fans and the stronger presence. Social media has become another field where that fight happens. Clubs use it to share news, videos and updates with supporters. Higher numbers mean more people see their content and feel part of the club.

Pirates fans will see the new total as more proof that their team is on top right now. Chiefs supporters can still point to the platforms where they lead. The numbers change often as people follow and unfollow accounts. What stays the same is the size of the rivalry.

Both sets of fans remain proud of their clubs. The Soweto Derby always draws big crowds and strong feelings. Now the same energy shows up online. Pirates have the edge for the moment, but the race between the two giants continues both on the field and on phones across the country.

Source: https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2117648223464485187