Cape Town - Abbubaker Mobara says that he cannot wait to play in his first Soweto derby, having constantly being told by Riyaad Norodien about the incredible atmosphere.
Orlando Pirates are set to take on arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs on Saturday in the first official derby of the season, and Mobara is relishing being part of the spectacle.
"The Soweto derby is obviously a lot bigger than what I have experienced in the Cape Town derbies, so I'm excited by the prospect of the day," the defender told the official Orlando Pirates magazine.
"It will be exciting to play in the game because it is a really big occasion, the biggest derby of my career so far. I want to enjoy it."
The former Ajax Cape Town man missed the annual pre-season encounter against Chiefs due to his commitment with the national team in the Olympics, but he is well aware of the unbelievable atmosphere in the stadium, as Bucs team-mate Norodien "hasn't stopped talking about it."
The 22-year-old added: "Inside the stadium on matchday it is just a very beautiful experience. Every move a player makes is celebrated and supported and this creates a great atmosphere.
"I'm sure whether you're on the bench or in the stands in your first derby, the vibe is one to remember.
"My team-mate Riyaad Norodien played in his first Soweto derby during pre-season, the Carling Cup, and he hasn't stopped talking about it.
"I was away on national duty so I missed it, but hearing his experience made me long for the game even more."