‘I dreamt of playing for Kaizer Chiefs, for him it was Orlando Pirates’
It is a very rare feat to see family members playing against each other for Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates.
But the next instalment of the Soweto derby could see cousins face off in Chiefs and Pirates colours.
Van Rooyen signed for Pirates
At the beginning of the season, Pirates pulled off the impressive signing of right-back Deano van Rooyen from Stellenbosch FC. In what was long drawn out move, the player ended up leaving the Cape Winelands side. That was practically the only team he knew having grown up within their structures. He would eventually go up the club ranks and captain the side for several season. For some of those season he played alongside his cousin Ashley du Preez.
This was up until three seasons ago, when du Preez would be the first of the cousins to move Gauteng. He made the much publicised move to Soweto giants Chiefs. Van Rooyen stayed put and continued to be consistent for Stellenbosch. It was then no surprise when Pirates came calling for his signature.
Du Preez in season three at Chiefs
Now both du Preez and van Rooyen find themselves reunited in Gauteng, but divided in Soweto. Speaking to the media ahead of the All Stars vs Magesi game, du Preez revealed the pair are living their respect dreams. One always wanted to play for Chiefs, while the other longed for the Pirates jersey.
“Deano (van Rooyen) is my cousin. We grew up together, stayed together, played football together, so we know each other, we know what we wanted as kids. I’ve always wanted to play for Chiefs, he wanted to play for Pirates – both of our dreams came true. Nowadays, we just encourage each other. We are there for each other, encourage each other, push each other. There is nothing else around me and Deano, we are just there for each other at the moment,” said du Preez as per KickOff.com.
Both living their dream
The first Soweto derby is set to take place on the 1st of February in 2025. Would you like to see du Preez and van Rooyen battle each other for Chiefs and Pirates? Feel free to leave your thoughts and feelings in the comments below.
