The first leg of the opening MTN8 semi-final will be contested this Saturday with Kaizer Chiefs set to host Orlando Pirates at FNB Stadium.

Amakhosi have shown that little has changed from last season after winning their opening matches of the season, while the Buccaneers will be aiming to replicate their Champions League form on the domestic front.

Here PSL.co.za takes a look at some of the players expected to play key roles in the 75th playing of the Soweto derby:

Bernard Parker (Kaizer Chiefs)

Parker is the only Chiefs striker to hit the target this season after his goal in the league. He seems to have picked up where he left off last season and has been integral to their strong start to 2013/14. The former Thanda Royal Zulu forward is always hard at work, playing with the same attitude for Bafana Bafana over the past week. He is yet to score against Pirates, though, and will be desperate to change that poor record.

Lennox Bacela (Orlando Pirates)

Many people wondered what was the wisdom behind bringing the 30-year-old to the club in the winter, but Bacela proved his capability with a stirring display in the opening round. The former Bloemfontein Celtic striker bagged a crucial brace against SuperSport United. An excellent target-man, he also scored the opener against Zamalek in the Champions League and his form and quick feet in front of goal could prove key for the Bucs.

Oupa Manyisa (Orlando Pirates)

The man that scored the winner against Chiefs in the 2011/12 final, Manyisa will again be a danger. He has played in every minute of the Bucs’ season so far and causing plenty of mayhem to opposition defences. He controls the tempo for his team and is likely to do so again against Chiefs, who will need to be wary of his creativity.

Siphiwe Tshabalala (Kaizer Chiefs)

He may have been criticised in some quarters for his recent showings in the Bafana Bafana jersey, but Tshabalala never seems to let Chiefs down. He has shown excellent glimpses of form for his club this season, scoring the third goal in the 3-0 quarter-final win over University of Pretoria. His bustling runs and vision will have to be guarded by the Bucs defence.

Andile Jali (Orlando Pirates)

Hard-man Jali has been instrumental for the Buccaneers in the short space of the season so far. So much so that his form has recaptured the eye of national coach Gordon Igesund. His robust approach and ability to break play down are likely to be vital to stifling the Amakhosi attack.

Tefu Mashamaite (Kaizer Chiefs)

Often overshadowed by defensive partner Mulomowandau Mathoho, the solidity and reliability of Mashamaite is often overlooked. He was a key member of their double-winning side from last year and will be key to silencing Bacela and co. Just like Mathoho, he too is a threat in the air, although he scored with his feet in the opening round.
Source: http://www.psl.co.za