He was one of six Buccaneers named in the 23-man squad called up ahead of the November international break, which commenced with qualification not yet secured by Hugo Broos’ charges. That feat was however achieved before Bafana and their group’s eventual runners-up The Cranes even took to the pitch at Mandela National Stadium on Friday.

Brought on in the second half in Kampala, Maswanganyi provided the crucial second goal for the visitors who claimed a 2-0 win to move to the top of the group. His dazzling cameo earned him a start in Tuesday’s home fixture against South Sudan, where he was again on the scoresheet as he doubled South Africa’s lead in the 22nd minute en route to a comfortable 3-0.

Three more Buccaneers also featured across the two fixtures, with striker Evidence Makgopa starting against the East Africans while midfielder Thalente Mbatha was introduced late in the second half. Relebohile Mofokeng was among the unused subs along with Nkosinathi Sibisi and Sipho Chaine.

The 20-year-old did get a run in Cape Town when he was brought in to replace Maswanganyi in the 74th minute along with Sibisi, who came on to shore up the defence in place of Siyabonga Ngezane.

The Soweto Giants were also represented elsewhere on the continent as Angolan international Gilberto earned his 16th international cap when he made a seven-minute cameo in his side’s goalless draw with Sudan on Monday. This was after only appearing on the bench in the earlier fixture where the Palancas Negras played to a 1-1 stalemate against Ghana’s Black Stars.

Deon Hotto’s Namibia meanwhile could not avoid the wooden spoon in Group J, despite earning their first points of the campaign through scoreless draws against Cameroon and Kenya. The Bucs stalwart was a starter at Orlando Stadium where the Brave Warriors took on the Indomitable Lions and did not feature away to the Harambee Stars.

All eight Bucs players who departed on national duty are back in camp, joining the rest of their teammates in preparation for Tuesday night’s CAF Champions League group stage opener against Algeria’s CR Belouizdad.

This win extended the Mighty Buccaneers’ flawless start in the Betway Premiership, to an impressive seven consecutive victories, marking a historic evening for both club and coach. 

All Eyes on Me 

An old saying: don’t judge a book by its cover. Yet, in football, the reverse often rings true. Football has a propensity to judge people too quickly. A person like Jose was judged before even setting foot on the pitch. 

On June 25, 2022, when Orlando Pirates announced Jose Riveiro as their new coach, opinions poured in from pundits and fans alike, and many were prematurely critical. 

Riveiro found himself scrutinised and even undermined by fellow contemporaries who even took the time to throw cryptic snide remarks at the mention of his appointment.

However, rather than being weighed down by these detractors, Jose chose to focus on the task at hand. Occupying his time and efforts to building a body of work worth noting.

His journey has transformed the scepticism into admiration, proving that patience and hard work conquers all.

Record Breaker

With his success on Tuesday night, Riveiro has firmly etched his name in Orlando Pirates’ history books. 

At 100 games, he joins an elite rank, becoming only the second coach in the PSL era, after Ruud Krol (119 games), to reach this milestone with the club. 

Not only did Pirates secure three points, but they also set a new club record, surpassing the previous high of six consecutive league wins – a record that had stood since the 2002/03 season. The seven consecutive league victories not only add another feather to his cap but sets a new standard for the club.

The 47-year-old has won five trophies in his two and a half years at the club, which makes him the most decorated Pirates coach in the PSL era (since 1996), but also equalling the record of the most titles by a coach with the club since Tony Sanderson (1973/74).

Even on a personal level, Jose has broken new ground. 

At his former club, Inter Turku, Jose steered his side to 56 wins from 102 matches – giving him a win percentage of 55%. With Pirates – Jose now sits on 61 wins which gives him 61% win rate.

Goals For:

Pirates – 178 goals
Inter Turku – 164 goals  

Goals Against:

Pirates – 82 goals
Inter Turku – 109 goals

Riveiro’s milestone isn’t just a celebration of his longevity but a testament to his resilience, vision, and determination to defy the odds. 

Through his leadership, he has shaped Orlando Pirates into a force to be reckoned with, inspiring fans and making his mark on South African football.

This past weekend, Riveiro led his team to MTN8 glory with a commanding 3-1 victory over Stellenbosch FC. The win secured the Buccaneers their third consecutive MTN8 title – a record-breaking feat never before achieved in the Premier Soccer League era.

Riveiro, the once little-known Spaniard faced scepticism from parts of the football community when he joined the club two years ago. Critics questioned his so-called lack of experience, with some even resorting to derogatory labels, dismissing him as a “plumber.” But the then 46-year-old (now 49) took the higher road and focused on his work.

“I have been hired by the Club. We are going to work to make history together and build a team we are all proud of. I don’t spend time thinking about what people say about me. My work must do the talking for me,” he declared at the time.

And talk it has. In just 830 days at the helm, Riveiro’s accomplishments have reverberated throughout South African football. Under his guidance, the Mighty Buccaneers have roared back into a competitive force.

Three MTN8 titles, two Nedbank Cup trophies, and back-to-back second place finishes in the Betway Premiership are a testament to his leadership.

The Numbers Game

To truly appreciate Riveiro’s performance over the last two and a half years, a look at the numbers is revealing:

Win Ratio:

Riveiro has secured 58 wins, 17 draws, and 20 losses in 95 matches, giving him a win ratio of 60%. This ranks him second (alongside Mike Makaab) only to Julio Leal, who achieved a 64% win ratio, albeit from just 28 matches.

1. Top 3 Coaches by Win Ratio:
2. Julio Leal: 64%
3. Jose Riveiro: 60% / Mike Makaab: 60%
4. Ted Dumitru: 54%

Total Wins:
With 58 wins, Riveiro ranks second in total victories, behind only Ruud Krol, who managed 65 wins in 125 matches between 2008 and 2011.

Top 3 Coaches by Total Wins:

1. Ruud Krol: 65
2. Jose Riveiro: 58
3. Mike Makaab: 41

Personal Sacrifice

Even more remarkable than the numbers are, the personal sacrifice Riveiro has made for the success of Orlando Pirates. For all the joy he has brought to the “Happy People” – as Pirates supporters are affectionately known, his achievements have come at a significant personal cost.

As Napoleon Hill once said, “Great achievement is usually born of great sacrifice and is never the result of selfishness.” Riveiro’s journey exemplifies this truth.

In 2022, Riveiro arrived in South Africa with two trusted colleagues, Sergio Almenara and Michel Bellver, to work on the Pirates Project. However, both eventually left, unable to adapt to the challenges of living far from family. But Riveiro, ever the captain, remained steadfast, navigating these same difficulties while steering his team through the challenging football season.

The emotional strain was evident after the recent MTN8 victory against Stellenbosch FC. As the final whistle blew, cameras captured a poignant moment: Riveiro crouched down, tears streaming from his eyes. These were not just tears of joy but also a reflection of the immense personal sacrifices he has made, many of which remain hidden from public view.

What many don’t know, for two long years, Riveiro has been separated from his wife and young daughter, enduring the isolation of distance while shouldering the weight of leading a football giant like Orlando Pirates. The mental toll of working away from family, compounded by the unrelenting demands of top-level coaching, would have broken many. Yet Riveiro has persevered, driven by a profound sense of duty to the club and its supporters.

In the face of adversity, Riveiro has remained the epitome of selflessness. His commitment to this institution and its success has never wavered, even at the expense of his own personal well-being.

Now, with the FIFA break offering a temporary respite, Riveiro finally has the chance to reconnect with his family – a long-overdue reunion for a man who has given so much of himself for the greater good.

#AppreciationPost 

This victory was a historic one for the Buccaneers as they became the first club in the Premier Soccer League era to win the MTN8 Cup three years in a row. However, while the club made headlines for its record-breaking feat, Mofokeng was quietly scripting his own chapter of history.

Rele marked his 50th official appearance for the Mighty Buccaneers during the final at a sold-out Moses Mabhida Stadium. This milestone is particularly remarkable given that he was only promoted to the senior team last year, and his impact has been nothing short of sensational. In those 50 appearances, he has amassed 19 goal contributions (9 goals and 10 assists).

The baby-faced assassin or, as some might say more aptly, the “president of ama2000,” has rapidly established himself as a regular under coach José Riveiro.

At just 19, he already boasts two MTN8 and two Nedbank Cup gold medals in his personal trophy cabinet. As well as being voted DStv Premiership Young Player of the Season and the Nedbank Cup Most Promising Player of the Tournament last season.

Mofokeng’s accomplishments extend beyond club football. With three Bafana Bafana caps already under his belt, the prodigy has recently earned a place in Hugo Broos’ 23-man squad for the upcoming 2025 AFCON Qualifiers against Congo Brazzaville.

The first leg will take place at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha on Friday, October 11, with the away fixture scheduled for Tuesday, October 15.

Mofokeng’s meteoric rise is a testament to his talent, work ethic, and dedication to the game. With his 20 year birthday just a few weeks away, the future looks incredibly bright for the young man as he continues to etch his name in South African football history.

Namibia, Nigeria, and South Africa all featured members of the current Buccaneers setup as they each began their bid to secure participation in the next continental showpiece event, taking place in Morocco next year. A total of seven Pirates players were involved in the September internationals, and orlandopiratesfc.com looks at how they fared over the past week.

Ndah’s Homecoming

It was a special homecoming for defender Olisa Ndah, who made his first appearance for Nigeria in over two years when they secured a convincing 3-0 win over Benin in Uyo over the weekend. The 26-year-old was brought on to replace Fulham centre-back Calvin Bassey in the second half and gave an assured display during his 27 minutes on the pitch.

He was named on the bench away to Rwanda but was not called upon as the Super Eagles toiled to a goalless draw. The four points earned by Nigeria in their two games see them take pole position in Group D, a point ahead of Benin.

Heartbreak for Hotto

For Namibia’s Deon Hotto, it was a tough few days as his side suffered close defeats in each of their two fixtures against Cameroon and Kenya, respectively. The 33-year-old started on the left wing and lasted the whole 90 minutes in the 1-0 loss away to the Indomitable Lions and netted a late consolation goal as the Brave Warriors lost 2-1 in their home game against the Harambee Stars played at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday.

The results mean that their next four AFCON Qualifiers present an uphill climb as they look to make their way up from the bottom of Group J.

Bafana’s Dramatic Voyage

Thalente Mbatha was the key figure in what was a dramatic start to South Africa’s qualification campaign, netting in injury time to salvage a point at home to Uganda before repeating the feat in South Sudan where his late strike secured a 3-2 victory against the hosts. The 24-year-old was making his international debut in the match played at Orlando Stadium, where he was a late substitution alongside Bucs teammate Relebohile Mofokeng, who earned both his second and third cap making an impact off the bench in both fixtures.

Also debuting for Bafana Bafana during the AFCON qualifiers was goalkeeper Sipho Chaine, whose special moment came in the victory against South Sudan. Meanwhile, defender Nkosinathi Sibisi and midfielder Patrick Maswanganyi were named on the bench for each of the two fixtures, but did not get the opportunity to feature.

South Africa is second in Group K, tied on four points with Uganda who edge them on goal difference.

It’s the second of back-to-back DDC festivals to start the 2024/25 campaign, with the action moving from KwaZulu-Natal to Mpumalanga ahead of another exciting showcase of South Africa’s up-and-coming football talent.

Form Guide

Saturday’s fixture is billed as the first home outing for the young Buccaneers, who boast a single point after a stalemate away to AmaZulu. Both sides failed to score in their season opener at King Zwelithini Stadium, which was not short of opportunities at both ends. Finding themselves in seventh place ahead of Match Day 2, Pirates will be eager to begin their ascent to more familiar territory near the top of the table early on in their campaign.

They come up against a City side fresh off a confidence-boosting start to their season after disposing of Sekhukhune United to take up top spot. The Capetonians did so by sending an early warning to their DDC rivals with a commanding 6-2 win over the Limpopo outfit.

A different challenge awaits in KwaMhlanga against a Bucs outfit determined to go all the way this season after a few near misses in the previous campaigns.

Head-to-Head

The Bucs Reserves go into their clash against the Citizens with fairly recent memories of a 3-2 win at Rand Stadium during the latter part of the 2023/24 season. This was courtesy of a brace from Tebogo Masemola, who struck in each half before an injury-time strike from Mehluleli Maphumulo rounded off the scoring for the hosts.

This has however been a tight rivalry in recent years with nothing to choose between the two sides, who each boast two wins in their last six meetings.

Goals scored during this period are evenly shared at six apiece, with the biggest winning margin being two goals, which both teams have achieved once.

How to Watch Orlando Pirates Reserves vs Cape Town City Reserves

The match kicks off at 13:00 and will be broadcast live on SuperSport PSL (202) and the La Liga channel (204). Live updates will be posted across Orlando Pirates’ social media channels.

Entry at the match venue is free.

Four days after advancing in the CAF Champions League, the Soweto Giants turn their focus to domestic cup action as they look to draw first blood in the first fixture in their two-legged match-up against the men from the Mother City.

Form Guide

The fixture comes after a tricky outing for Pirates, who were able to see off Malagasy champions ,Disciples FC in the deciding leg of the First Preliminary Round clash at Orlando Stadium on Friday. They won 4-0 after a goalless draw on the away leg played in Mauritius five days prior, ensuring progress into the play-off round of the Champions League.

It was yet another successful cup tie for the Buccaneers, who had disposed of SuperSport United in their MTN8 quarter-final on home soil. With seven goals scored in their first three games of the season, Pirates will look to find the net a few more times in what could be a testing assignment on the road against a well-rested City outfit.

The home side have been able to channel all their focus towards the upcoming clash against the Buccaneers since booking their spot in the semis. They did so by beating Sekhukhune United 1-0 courtesy of a late penalty converted by Darwin Gonzales.

Now taking to the field once more after two weeks of no competitive action, Eric Tinkler’s men will look to use the lengthy rest to their advantage against a battle-tested Bucs outfit.

Team News

Pirates have had a few boosts heading into the clash with Thabiso Monyane and Miguel Timm both returning to action on Friday after short injury layoffs, while new signing Gilberto has since become available for selection.

For City, Angolan midfielder Carlinhos is sidelined after picking up a knee injury in the lead-up to the clash against the Buccaneers.

The Citizens have however further bolstered their squad, with former French youth international Amadou Soukona and ex-Moroka Swallows defender Ntsikelelo Ngqonga among the latest talents roped in during the ongoing transfer window.

Key Players

Monnapule Saleng (Orlando Pirates): A tireless workhorse out wide, Saleng has a knack of delivering the goods in clutch moments and will be crucial for the Buccaneers across the two legs. The 26-year-old is already off the mark this season, and is fresh off another eye-catching performance in Pirates’ win over Disciples.

Jaedin Rhodes (Cape Town City): The attacking midfielder’s star rose exponentially in the previous season, as he featured in all but one of City’s fixtures. Able to operate on either wing as well as more centrally, Rhodes ended the season with goals in each of his last two appearances last season and will be determined to kick on during the early part of the ongoing campaign.

Head-to-Head

Pirates’ last MTN8 clash against Cape Town City dates back to 2020 where a lone strike from Terrence Dzvukamanja sent the Buccaneers into the last four on their way to picking up the first of their three titles claimed in the last four years. This is also the most recent cup encounter between the two sides, who boast a win apiece in their two previous meetings in knockout football.

As they head to the Mother City for the away leg, the Soweto Giants will be buoyed by their recent record against the men from the Cape having won each of their last three matches, including their most recent clash on the road.

TV Coverage and Ticket Info

The game kicks off at 19:00 and will be broadcast live on SuperSport PSL and SABC Sport. You can also follow live updates posted across Orlando Pirates social media platforms.

Tickets to attend the match are available online at TicketPro as well as selected outlets nationwide.

The Buccaneers come into this encounter looking to avoid a potential banana skin with the match sitting on a knife edge after the First Leg ended in a goalless draw. Both clubs are yet to get off the mark but it will be the visitors who come with the slight mental edge having kept a clean sheet in the first leg encounter.

As for Riveiro and his charges. The team has to step up and dish out a performance befitting of the clubs prestige.

Player Availability

The hosts will be boosted by the return of Miguel Timm who has shaken off an injury that has kept him out of the last two matches. Another player who has been declared fit for tonight’s encounter is Thabiso Monyane. The hard-running wing back has been declared fit by the Bucs medical team after recovering from a toe injury.

Not Available

Meanwhile, apart from the list of players who are still recovering from their respective injuries, one other player who won’t be available for selection tonight is new signing Gilberto.

Gilberto, has missed the Buccaneers’ opening fixtures as he was awaiting his work permit.

However, Orlandopiratesfc.com can confirm that Gilberto has finally received the necessary paperwork to finally play in the famous Black and White. But this will only be from the next round of the CAF Champions  League qualifiers,  should Pirates win tonight.

Gilberto will be available for selection for the MTN8 clash against Cape Town City next week.

Although this won’t be the first time that the 26-year-old wears the jersey, having worn it in Pirates’ goalless draw against Madagascar’s Disciples FC last weekend.

It will be the first time he dons the famous jersey in South Africa, and not only that, but it will also be the first time he does so at the Meca of South African football – Orlando Stadium.

A stadium where legends such as Chippa Moloi and Jomo Sono cemented their legendary statuses wearing that number 10 on their backs.

“Its an honour to wear this number.  To have the number 10 jersey is not only a childhood dream of mine but also a sense of responsibility and undertaking of the expectations that it carries,” Tito told Orlandopiratesfc.com.

And so it should.

The number 10 has been worn by some of the most iconic figures in the sport’s history. Its legacy is a testament to the extraordinary individuals who have embodied the essence of football greatness. Now, this hallowed number finds a new custodian in Maswanganyi.

“I have always loved the number 10 jersey ever since I was young,” he reveals. “The first soccer shirt I ever owned was that of Real Madrid that my father had bought it for me. It was that of Figo.

“Everywhere I went, people used to call me ‘Figo’, ‘Figo’, and as a kid that sort of attention brought a smile to my face. I guess that fond memory is what cemented my relationship with that number 10 jersey.”

More than just a number

Much like the number 23 in basketball has transcended mere digits to become a symbol of excellence and iconic status, thanks to the unparalleled legacy of Michael Jordan.

His impact was so profound that the number 23 became synonymous with basketball excellence, a trend continued by the likes of LeBron James, who has embraced the number with his own remarkable achievements, further cementing its legendary status.

Similarly, at Manchester United, the number 7 jersey has become a revered symbol of footballing prowess, largely due to the extraordinary talents who have worn it. From George Best, Eric Cantona, David Beckham, and more recently Cristiano Ronaldo, the number 7 has been a hallmark of the club’s rich heritage.

Back home, the number has rarely been issued out by the club. Not because the number has been retired but rather out of respect for the legends who upheld the status of this legendary number.

The weight of this jersey is a reflection of its storied past and the high expectations it entails, elevating those who wear it to a status of unparalleled significance.

Percy Chippa Moloi, Jomo Sono, King Kaizer Matatazela Mkhwanazi, Blessing Killer Mgidi and Basil Steenkamp are some players who have donned the famous number with distinction.

“It means a lot honestly not only to me but also to my family, my friends and especially to those who look up to me. I don’t see this as just a number because for Orlando Pirates, the number 10 jersey holds a very special place in the history of this organisation. But having said that, we have work to do on Friday.As a team we are focused on making sure that we get the desired and move to the next round,” Maswanganyi concluded.

Recent History of the number 10

The last player to wear the famous number 10 in a regular season was Steve Lekoelea until it was taken away from him after a disciplinary matter in the 2001/02 season.

Since then, only a handful of players have been able to wear it, and that was only in the CAF club competitions, where squad numbers are limited to a set number, making it impossible to have the numbers unused.

Only time will tell when this famous jersey makes its way back to the playing field but what orlandopiratesfc.com can reveal, it has come close on two occasions. But we will leave that to Pirates Productions to touch on this subject one of these days.

In terms of CAF, club legend, and all-time top goalscorer Benedict Vilakazi was handed the number in 2006. A few years later it was handed to Oupa Manyisa until most recently the number 10 was handed to Vincent Pule.  

In the world of football, the number 10 jersey is akin to a five-star rating in the realm of luxury—both are symbols of an unparalleled standard and a mark of elite distinction. Just as a five-star hotel epitomizes the pinnacle of comfort and excellence, for Orlando Pirate, the number 10 on a football shirt signifies a player who possesses an extraordinary blend of skill, vision, and creativity.

It is more than just a number; it is a revered mantle passed down through the annals of football history, carried by those who have redefined the game with their brilliance.

Van Rooyen who joined Stellenbosch FC as a teenager, made his senior debut in 2016 featuring as a substitute at 19 years old. He would go on to help the Maroons gain promotion to the Premiership three years later.

He went to become a prominent figure for the club, averaging an impressive 27 league matches per season (since 2019).

Die Hond as he is affectionately known, a name that underpins his never say die spirit, has served his former club with flying colours – registering over 150 appearances in all competitions.

About Deano

• Nickname: Die Hond
• Favourite Number: 7
• Favourite Player: Cristiano Ronaldo
• Favourite Club: Manchester United
• Professional Debut: 2016 vs Mthtata Bucks (National First Division).

From all of us at the Club we would like to say… Welcome to Orlando Pirates Deano!

The Soweto Giants are gunning for an unprecedented third straight title in Top-Eight competition having successfully defended their 2022 title with another triumph in the previous edition of the tournament.

They made it past the first hurdle in the opening weekend of the 2024/25 season, beating Gauteng rivals SuperSport United 3-1 at Orlando Stadium, where it took 120 minutes to determine a winner after the initial 90 minutes finished deadlocked at a goal apiece. City meanwhile claimed a narrow win in their quarter-final clash away to Sekhukhune United where Darwin Gonzales netted a late penalty to send the visitors into the last four.

With the remaining spots decided over the past weekend, Jose Riveiro’s troops have been drawn against the men from the Mother City in what will be the first MTN8 clash between the two sides since they locked horns in the 2020 quarter-finals. On that occasion it was the Buccaneers who triumphed with a 1-0 win at Orlando Stadium, with Terrence Dzvukamanja’s first-half strike proving to be the winner in the end.

As current defending champions, Pirates are chasing their 13th Top Eight title while their opponents look to keep their hopes of their second triumph in the competition alive.

The Premier Soccer League is set to confirm match dates, venues, and kick-off times in due course.

It was the men from Tshwane who enjoyed most of the early opportunities, largely due a nervy start from the home side. The best of their early chances fell to veteran striker Bradley Grobler, who fired wide from the edge of the box following a turnover of possession in the middle of the park.

Former Pirates midfielder Vincent Pule had a similar opportunity in the 12th minute, but only
succeeded in launching the ball over the crossbar. The Buccaneers could only kick into gear midway into the first half, and had their first real shot at goal courtesy of Relebohile Mofokeng who was perfectly-positioned to finish off a smart move towards the penalty area, but could only produce a wayward attempt.

United keeper Ricardo Goss was called into action moments later, with Tshegofatso Mabasa
producing an excellent turn to evade his marker before drawing a save from the outstretched
shot-stopper. The hosts continued to probe, with Patrick Maswanganyi getting close on the half-hour mark with a firmly-struck shot from range deflected wide by Goss. When it looked as if the two sides were set to head to the break still deadlocked, defender Olisa Ndah put Pirates ahead with a clever flick from close range as Monnapule Saleng revived the Bucs following the visitors’ failure to clear the threat from a set piece.

After trailing at the break, United emerged from the tunnel more energized and were
immediately rewarded for their drive as Pule nodded home in the 49th minute to make it 1-1. The Soweto Giants enjoyed a promising spell around the hour mark, pushing successive waves of attack deep inside the opposition half without affecting the scoreline. This period saw Mofokeng denied twice in the span of two minutes by Goss, followed by a narrow attempt from Mabasa who headed wide after connecting with a superb cross from Maswanganyi.

The Matsatsansa shot-stopper thwarted Saleng in the 76th minute, parrying the ball into the
path of Mabasa who could not direct his volley into the net. Neither side could find a winner inside 90 minutes, with the game eventually going into extra time. The Buccaneers had the perfect start to the extended period, with Saleng drawing them ahead after getting on the end of a brilliantly-worked set play just two minutes after the restart.

With United looking to force the game into a shootout, Sipho Chaine came up with an excellent stop to keep out a seemingly goal-bound shot from Nyiko Mobbie hit from close range. The visitors faced an uphill climb in the second period of extra time when substitute striker extended the home side’s lead when he pounced on a loose ball outside the box, directing it into the net to make it 3-1.

It could have been four goals to one in the final minute if not for the upright, which denied Kabelo Dlamini as he went for goal from just inside the box. However, the defending champions had done just enough to ensure a winning start to the new campaign as they sealed their spot in the last four.

Pirates XI: Chaine, Ndah, Sesane, Monyane, Hotto, Makhaula (Dlamini 72’), Mbatha ,
Saleng, Mofokeng (Kimvuidi 90’), Maswanganyi, Mabasa (Makgopa 84’).

An action-packed Spanish voyage closes with another exciting fixture, pitting one of South Africa’s top sides against Qatar’s most successful team.

Match Overview

It’s a clash between two sides that tasted silverware in the 2023/24 season, with the men from Doha set to take to the field for only the second time time since clinching a domestic double

Having bagged the Qatar Stars League and the Emir Cup titles, Al-Sadd had a confidence-boosting outcome in their only practice match so far. They won 8-0 against Gibraltar Football League outfit Manchester 62, with the clash also taking place at Banùs Football Centre.

With a season comprising of competition against Asia’s top teams on the horizon, they will be eyeing another commanding performance against the Soweto Giants who take to the field one last time before heading back to South Africa.

For Pirates, the fixture presents another opportunity to return to winning ways after playing to a stalemate against Granada on Wednesday. It was their second draw on tour, with the first coming in their opening pre-season fixture against English Championship outfit Plymouth Argyle.

The Buccaneers have tasted victory in Spain, beating La Liga outfit Sevilla 2-0 at Ramon Cisneros Palacios, and they will be eager to leave their adopted home base in Marbella with another win in the bag.

Team News

Bucs coach Jose Riveiro has tested out several combinations throughout the tour, and will likely shuffle his pack once more.

The Buccaneers had an injury concern early in the clash against Granada, with Evidence Makgopa stretchered out midway through the first half. The striker will be in a race against time to be fit for the clash, while experienced forwards like Tshegofatso Mabasa and Zakhele Lepasa could step up in his absence.

Al-Sadd meanwhile handed an unofficial debut to Spanish forward Rafa Mujica, who made a switch from Portuguese top-flight outfit Arouca in the off-season.

He’s the club’s only new signing so far, while winger Nayef Hamid has departed for a loan spell at Al-Shahania.

Players to Watch

Gonzalo Plata will be high on confidence, having carried his goal-scoring form from the previous campaign into the off-season with a hat-trick against Manchester 62. The Ecuadorian had 14 goal contributions in 21 league appearances last season, and is a potent threat on the right wing.

He will be ably assisted by Mujica, who netted a brace in his first outing for the club.

In defence, goalkeeper Meshaal Barsham boasts valuable international experience having claimed close to 50 caps for Qatar, and will be playing behind the likes of Brazilian defender Paulo Otàvio.

How to Watch Orlando Pirates vs Al-Sadd

Kick-off is at 19:30 (SAST) and can be streamed live via Orlando Pirates’ YouTube channel, Pirates TV and SuperSport PSL. Live updates will be shared across Orlando Pirates’ social media platforms.

In an exclusive interview with Orlandopiratesfc.com, Rasebotja reflected on the moment he learned about the Soweto Giants’ interest in his services. “I was really excited when I found out that Pirates was interested in me,” he said.

“Every footballer’s dream is to play for a big club. For an institution like Orlando Pirates to enquire about my services is a big career move, and I looked forward to it with enthusiasm and excitement. So yeah, I’m really excited to join a big club like Orlando Pirates.” While adjusting to a new environment can be challenging, Rasebotja has found the transition smooth so far.

“It’s getting better day by day,” he noted. “From the first day, the guys welcomed me well. As time goes on, I’ll get used to them and we’ll gel on the field. It’s a work in progress. We’ll take it one day at a time.” Bucs fans got their first glimpse of Rasebotja in the famous black and white when he ran out for 45 minutes against English Championship side Plymouth Argyle in the sweltering heat of Marbella, Spain on Friday. It was a welcome experience for the player, who expressed immense pride at having donned the club’s iconic colours in a match situation.

“I was excited to represent the club for the first time,” he recalled. “It’s a big responsibility, but I took it quite well. It can only get better from here. I enjoyed it and I felt really proud of myself for getting the opportunity to represent Pirates.” Awaiting the Buccaneers in this week are games against Spanish outfits Sevilla and Granada. Looking ahead to a trip to Ramón Cisneros Palacios this evening, Rasebotja emphasised the importance of facing quality teams during pre-season to prepare for the upcoming campaign.

“Sevilla is one of the top teams in Spain, and we would like to play against the best to also showcase what we are capable of,” he said.

“I’m looking forward to getting out there and competing against a good team like Sevilla, and hopefully we get the result that we want as well. We’ll play to win as always.”

Pirates’ game against Sevilla kicks off at 21:00 (SAST) 15 July 2024.

The procession will depart from Grace Bible Church to Westpark Cemetery where the burial service will be held.After the burial, the procession will return to Grace bible Church for refreshments.

The biggest winner on the night was undoubtedly midfielder Tito Maswanganyi. He may not have been nominated for the main award (the PSL Footballer of the Season), however if ever there was an award to be cherished, it would be that given to you by your peers and that is exactly what Maswanganyi walked away with as he claimed the DStv Premiership Player’s Player of the Season award. The 26-year-old also grabbed himself, the DStv Midfielder of the Season and the Nedbank Cup Player of the Tournament awards.

Close on his heels in terms of individual accolades, was Relebohile Mofokeng who claimed the Nedbank Cup Most Promising Player of the Season and the DStv Premiership Young Player of the Season.

Meanwhile, Goalkeeper Sipho Chaine’s heroics in the MTN8 Cup saw him emerge as the competition’s Last Man Standing after keeping two clean sheets in four games. The shot-stopper was nominated alongside teammates Zakhele Lepasa and Maswanganyi, whose exploits were also instrumental in delivering a second successive title to the Soweto Giants.

More individual brilliance in the Bucs camp was recognised as striker Tshegofatso Mabasa was confirmed as the winner of the PSL Golden Boot after netting 16 league goals in the campaign and Thabiso Lebitso’s thunderous strike in the Soweto Derby clash against Kaizer Chiefs was named Goal of the Season.

Well done boys! and also congratulations to the all other winners on the night.

Jose Riveiro’s men will begin their preseason campaign against English Championship side Plymouth Argyle on July 12, before heading to Seville on July 15 to take on La Liga outfit Sevilla.

Then to round up the tour, the back-to-back MTN8 and Nedbank Cup champs will lock horns with Qatar Stars League outfit Al Sadd SC on July 19.

Plymouth Argyle

Nicknamed The Pilgrims, Plymouth Argyle Football Club compete in the English Championship and despite a disappointing 2023/24 season, the club has already signalled their intent to change their fortunes in the new season with the appointment of Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney as the new Manager.

Speaking on his appointment last month, Rooney said: “This is an opportunity to be part of an exciting project. I look forward to helping to build a squad of players to play expansive football – and to entertain the Green Army. 

“I have experienced first-hand how talented the existing group of players is here – and also the incredible atmosphere at Home Park. The club is on an exciting long-term journey, with a progressive plan in place. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of it.  I can’t wait for the Championship season to start in August.” 

Sevilla FC

Sevilla FC need no introduction. The club is considered one of the most successful teams in the UEFA Cup/Europa League with seven titles to their name, most recently in 2023.

The La Liga giants are currently managed by Quique Sanchez Flores. He was appointed on December 18, 2023.

Al Sadd SC

Al Sadd SC are regarded as the best team in Qatar and are the only Qatari team to have won the AFC Champions League in Asia. Al Sadd SC are a powerhouse in Qatari football, with a winning tradition, passionate fan base, and talented players that make them a force to be reckoned with on the field. Notable players to have don the jersey include Xavi and Andrew Ayew. Of the current crop, Al Sadd SC are led by Akram Afif, who scored 26 goals (including 11 assists) in 22 matches.  

Orlando Pirates can confirm that Richard Ofori, Siyabonga Mpontshane, Thabang Monare and Kermit Erasmus will be leaving us when their respective contracts come to an end on June 30.

It is with a deep sense of gratitude that we reflect on the contributions of these players during their time with us.

Richard Ofori

Richard joined the Mighty Buccaneers in 2020 and quickly became a cornerstone of our defence, playing 58 matches and securing 29 clean sheets. Yet, his influence extended beyond the pitch. Richard was a unifying force within the squad, and his four years here, have left us with countless positive memories.

Siyabonga Mpontshane

The 38-year-old will be leaving after nine seasons with the us. His tenure has been marked by exceptional discipline and dedication, making him one of our most respected and appreciated members of the team.

Thabang Monare

From the day he stepped foot in the club, the 34-year-old gave it his all. Desh has been the embodiment of hard work and resilience, featuring in 93 matches for the Buccaneers.  Monare leaves the club with 2 Nedbank Cup, 2 MTN8 Cup and a silver medal for the CAF Confederation Cup.

Kermit Erasmus

Kermit rejoined the Buccaneers in 2022 after nine years away and made an immediate impact by helping us clinch the MTN8 title. With over 117 matches under his belt in Pirates colours, Romeo, has solidified his legendary status at the club.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to these players for their unwavering service and commitment to the club. We wish them all the best in their future endeavours.

Following four incredible seasons and over 140 matches, our journey with the 31-year-old midfielder has come to an end.

Words cannot fully express our gratitude and appreciation for Makaringe. Throughout his time with us, he consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism and discipline.

The Club will always be grateful for his contribution and wishes him nothing but the best in his future endeavours.

Mr. Almenara had initially submitted his request to leave the Club earlier this year, however, to ensure the team’s progress and focus during the latter stages of the league and cup competitions, management chose to address this request at the conclusion of the season.

“This is a decision I took with a heavy heart,” said Almenara. “I have really enjoyed my stay here, but unfortunately, due to personal matters that the club is aware of, I can no longer continue with my job. I have a young family back in Finland. They have been unable to integrate into the country. I would have wished to stay longer, but unfortunately, it’s not possible.

“I would like to thank management, the technical team, players, and most importantly the fans for my stay. I will always remain a Buccaneer.”

We thank Sergio for his contribution to the Club. The two years together have been amazing!

The Club – with consultation of the head coach – will look to use this offseason break to find a suitable replacement/s as well as bolster the backroom staff in the technical, analysis, medical and conditioning departments.

Through a sensational comeback reminiscent of their 2023 triumph, the Buccaneers came from behind to clinch victory in the dying moments following a tensely-fought encounter.

Drawn as the away team for the third consecutive game in the competition, they had to contend with a nervy start after finding themselves on the back foot from the first whistle.

Thabiso Monyane was called in to intervene in the second minute when he pulled off a superb block to deny Aubrey Modiba, who had worked himself into space inside the Bucs penalty area.

The hosts had an even better opportunity to pull ahead as Deon Hotto was deemed to have fouled Khuliso Mudau inside the box, with the referee pointing to the penalty spot. That chance went a begging, thanks to goalkeeper Sipho Chaine who produced an excellent save to deny Lucas Ribeiro.

Pirates’ first real chance came in the 17th minute following a turnover of possession inside Sundowns territory. Patrick Maswanganyi was on the end of the resultant attack, but could not find a way past Ronwen Williams.

They continued to grow into the game, with Hotto drawing another save from the Brazilians’ shot-stopper with a right-footed shot when he was played through by Monnapule Saleng.

Sundowns meanwhile had a few half chances at the other end where Ribeiro’s shot from range was comfortably dealt with by Chaine. However, the Buccaneers finished the opening half the brighter of the two sides with Evidence Makgopa and Thalente Mbatha each having a go at the home side’s goal, but without affecting the scoreboard.

The visitors had a more controlled start to the second period but lost their defensive shape nine minutes after the restart when Ribeiro snuck behind to set up Themba Zwane, who needed no second invitation as he put the men from Tshwane ahead.

In search of the equaliser, the Buccaneers made several surges into the Brazilians’ half and had an opportunity sparked up by Mbatha who took advantage of the space he found himself in just outside the box to launch a shot that drifted inches wide of the upright.

They didn’t have to wait much longer as a 71st-minute foray into the box resulted in a foul on Maswanganyi, with the referee duly awarding a penalty. He dusted himself to take the spot kick, calmly levelling matters as he sent Williams the wrong way.

The Soweto Giants immediately looked to edge ahead as replacement midfielder Kabelo Dlamini forced Williams into a save with a long-range effort before fellow substitute Tshegofatso Mabasa replicated the feat from inside the box when he connected with Saleng.

It appeared as if the game would go into extra time but another second-half sub provided the decisive moment in the dying moments following a move sparked by Olisa Ndah near the halfway line.

The defender located Saleng on the right flank, with the attacker linking up with Relebohile Mofokeng who ghosted past Bongani Zungu before firing past Williams to put Pirates in the lead with seconds left on the clock.

The final whistle sounded moments later, confirming the Soweto Giants’ claim to a second successive cup double as they added another piece of silverware to the cabinet.

Pirates XI: Chaine, Ndah, Sesane (Sibisi 83’), Maela (Dlamini 72’), Mbatha, Makhaula (Mofokeng 72’), Monyane (Lebitso 60’), Hotto, Saleng, Maswanganyi, Makgopa (Mabasa 60’).

A sell-out crowd is expected at the World Cup venue as two of the country’s biggest football teams each chase their second piece of domestic silverware in a fitting show-stopper for the 2023/24 season. It promises to be a thrilling affair as the Buccaneers take the final step in their title defence against a side determined to wrestle back the trophy they last hoisted in 2022.

Form Guide

The two Gauteng rivals have charted different paths to the final, with Pirates posting significant winning margins against their previous opponents.

Lower league outfits Crystal Lake and Hungry Lions fell on the wrong side of some lopsided results as the Soweto Giants breezed through the two opening rounds with 10 unanswered goals. This was followed by a significant step up in competition in the quarterfinals against AmaZulu where they pulled off a 4-2 win away from home before booking their spot in the final with a 3-1 win away to Chippa United.

More recent results however tell a different story, as they head off to Mbombela on the back of a less-than-ideal finish to their league campaign where they earned a single point in their last three games, which was just enough to place them in second place in the final standings.

They go toe-to-toe with a Sundowns side that began their Nedbank Cup campaign with straightforward victories against MM Platinum and Maritzburg United before they were made to sweat by Tshwane rivals University of Pretoria, who they saw off in a penalty shootout to advance to the semifinals.

The Brazilians booked their spot in the final with a hard-fought 2-1 win away to Stellenbosch, but also head into the final looking to rediscover their winning form after falling to a defeat against Cape Town City in their final league game.

Having been crowned league champions, they will be gunning for a domestic double against a side looking to complete a double of their own.

Team News

Sundowns are expected to be without several first-team players, with the likes of Bathusi Aubaas and Thapelo Maseko nursing long-term injuries while Grant Kekana, Aubrey Modiba, and Thembinkosi Lorch are also among the doubtful starters.

They will be boosted by the return of attacking pair Siphelele Mkhulise and Marcos Allende, who both return from suspension after having to sit out the game against City.

For Pirates, Nkosinathi Sibisi is back to bolster the defensive options after not featuring in their final league game against SuperSport United due to a one-match ban.

There have been some welcome developments on the injury front with Miguel Timm and Thabiso Lebitso both back at training after making significant strides in terms of recovery, while Tapelo Xoki is a notable absentee having been ruled out of the encounter.

Key Players

Patrick Maswanganyi (Orlando Pirates): One of the standout players in this year’s Nedbank Cup, Maswanganyi leads the charge with six goal contributions in the competition and will be eager to add to that tally in the final. With his expansive skill set, the 25-year-old is equally adept at creating and finishing off opportunities and will require some attention from the defence.

Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns): The Sundowns keeper will be looking to cap off another stellar season with a big performance in this crucial encounter. Williams’ calm demeanour and leadership will be vital throughout the duration of the match, and he could prove to be his side’s main trump card in a game that could potentially be decided via a shootout.

Head-to-Head

This will be the second cup final contested by the two sides this season, following October’s MTN8 clash at Moses Mabhida Stadium. Pirates were victorious then, winning 3-1 on penalties after a goalless 120 minutes.

That marathon encounter was just one of three tight results between the two sides in the 2023/24 season, with their two league encounters yielding a 1-0 away win for Sundowns before they played to a thrillin 1-1 stalemate at Loftus Versfeld.

In the Nedbank Cup, the Buccaneers have had a slight upper hand against the Brazilians in their five most recent encounters in the competition, eliminating them on three occasions while suffering two defeats.

How to Watch Orlando Pirates vs Mamelodi Sundowns

The game kicks off at 15:00 and will be televised live on SuperSport PSL and SABC 1. You can also follow the action as it happens by keeping an eye on live updates shared across Orlando Pirates’ social media channels.

Tickets to attend the match are sold out.

The Brave Warriors and Bafana Bafana confirmed their final squads, with four Buccaneers set to swap club colours for those of their respective national teams in the coming days.

Among those called up for the crucial fixtures is the Bafana trio of Nkosinathi Sibisi, Patrick Maswanganyi, and Relebohile Mofokeng. They are part of head coach Hugo Broos’ 23-man squad that will travel to take on Nigeria in Uyo on Friday, 7 June before locking horns with Zimbabwe in Bloemfontein four days later.

Sibisi has been a squad regular in recent years and made his last international appearance in March’s friendly against Andorra alongside Maswanganyi, who earned his first cap in the fixture. They are joined in the squad by a potential debutant in Mofokeng, with the 19-year-old rewarded for some eye-catching performances throughout the 2023/24 season.

Meanwhile, Namibia will lean on Deon Hotto’s experience and familiarity with Orlando Stadium, as the veteran winger features in Collin Benjamin’s 30-man squad that will set up base at the iconic venue where they host Liberia and Tunisia in games taking place next Wednesday and Sunday, respectively.

The 33-year-old helped the Brave Warriors to a historic second-round finish in the recent Africa Cup of Nations and could add more caps to his collection.

All four players are expected to depart the Bucs camp in the days following Saturday’s Nedbank Cup final in Mbombela.

International Fixtures Involving Orlando Pirates Players

Wednesday, 5 June
● Namibia vs Liberia at Orlando Stadium, Kick-off at 18:00

Friday, 7 June
● Nigeria vs South Africa at Godswill Akpabio Stadium, 21:00

Sunday, 9 June
● Namibia vs Tunisia at Orlando Stadium, 18:00

Tuesday, 11 June
● South Africa vs Zimbabwe at Free State Stadium, 18:00

The Bucs medical department has issued the following injury Update:

Tapelo Xoki has been ruled out for the remaining matches of the 2024/25 season and will need to undergo surgery after suffering a knee injury during training earlier this week.

Midfielder Miguel Timm is likely to miss today’s encounter as well after experiencing some discomfort in his knee.

Meanwhile, Deon Hotto has been cleared and is available for selection following nasal surgery. He is however required to wear a facial mask to protect his nose during this recovery phase.

Following a week on home turf, the Soweto Giants take to the road one last time in the 2023/24 league campaign in search of a crucial three-point haul.

Form Guide

They make their way to Mpumalanga on the back of a rare defeat at Orlando Stadium, where they lost 1-0 to Richards Bay last Saturday. It was their first home loss in 2024, ending a streak of five league victories and seven wins in all competitions.

The result also saw them miss the opportunity to leapfrog Stellenbosch into second place, with a solitary point currently separating the two sides with two games remaining in their two-way race for CAF Champions League qualification.

Their trip to Mbombela follows a significant upturn in away form over the past month, with four of their seven wins in league and cup competition collected on the road.

Pirates however face a challenging hurdle in the Rockets, who will be relishing the return to familiar territory following the 1-1 stalemate away to Cape Town City which concluded a busy two weeks worth of travelling. Their travels have seen them take to the field four times, losing to Mamelodi Sundowns before collecting a point in each of the three games that have followed.

Having exited the Nedbank Cup in the last eight, Galaxy’s five most recent fixtures have been in the league, where they have notched up a disappointing six points to take up fifth place in the standings.

Their solitary home game during this period yielded their only win, which came against the Buccaneers’ rivals Moroka Swallows, and they will be looking to add another Soweto scalp to their tally with three points moving them up a spot to fourth place.

Team News

Thalente Mbatha returns to add to coach Jose Riveiro’s options in the midfield, following his absence from the team that faced Richards Bay. The 24-year-old is again eligible for selection having served his one-match suspension.

The Buccaneers could soon be bolstered further by the return of Deon Hotto, who continues his recovery after picking up a knock in the Nedbank Cup semifinal triumph over Chippa United.

For the Rockets, coach Sead Ramovic could shuffle his pack with the likes of Lindokuhle Mbatha and Orebotse Mongae expected back after missing the trip to Cape Town.

Key Players

Patrick Maswanganyi (Orlando Pirates): The midfielder has been one of the most enterprising players in the top flight and continues to enjoy a dream first season in Bucs colours. Through an uncanny ability to spark scoring opportunities from various parts of the pitch, Maswanganyi has had a hand in 21 goals across competitions and will be looking to add to his tally against the Rockets.

Samir Nurkovic (TS Galaxy): Often used as a super-sub, Nurkovic has been a key impact player for the Rockets throughout the campaign. The Serb currently sits on 10 goals in all competition, and will savour the opportunity to get on the scoresheet against the Buccaneers.

Head-to-Head

Pirates have won each of their last three league games against Galaxy, including the reverse fixture played at Orlando Stadium in December. On that occasion, Deon Hotto’s 25th minute strike was all that was required for the Soweto Giants to notch up maximum points following a tightly-contested 90 minutes of football.

The Rockets’ last win over the Buccaneers dates back to the backend of the 2021/22 campaign when they registered a 1-0 win at home through a first-half goal scored by Lifa Hlongwane.

Overall, the two sides have met seven times in the Premiership with the Soweto Giants emerging victorious on four occasions and losing twice. Both their defeats have come in Mbombela, where they boast just one win in their three league visits.

How to Watch Orlando Pirates vs TS Galaxy

The game is scheduled to kick off at 15:00 and will be broadcast live on SuperSport PSL. You can follow the action by keeping an eye out for live updates posted across Orlando Pirates social media platforms, including the Club’s official mobile app.

The two titans of South African football face off in what promises to be an epic showdown at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday 1 June, with the Buccaneers looking to successfully defend their title against the Tshwane Giants who are aiming to lift the prestigious piece of silverware for the second time in three seasons.

The fixture kicks off at 15:00 and is expected to attract a sell-out crowd at the FIFA 2010 World Cup venue, with fans from across the country eager to witness the thrilling finale between the Gauteng rivals.

Tickets for the clash are available at R100 per ticket and can be purchased online at TicketPro as well as selected outlets nationwide.

Three points were up for grabs in Soweto as the two sides slugged it out once more following the weekend’s Nedbank Cup encounter at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium where the Buccaneers prevailed to book their place in the final.

At home for the first time since hosting AmaZulu in mid-April, the home side struggled to find cohesion early on with the opening 20 minutes flying by without any real opportunities at both ends. Bucs defender Thabiso Monyane was however presented with a chance in the 17th minute when he was released in acres of space by Thalente Mbatha but badly miscued his shot at goal.

It took them until just before the half-hour mark to truly trouble the defence as Patrick Maswanganyi surged through the middle before drawing a deflection inside the box with his effort at goal.

The breakthrough wasn’t too far off, and it came in the 36th minute through some delightful interplay kicked off just inside Chippa territory when Maswanganyi released Monyane on the flank and the right-back delivered a searching cross which was turned into the net by Mabasa.

Pirates remained dominant and had an opportunity to double their lead four minutes before the break when Baraka Majogoro used his hand to defend Innocent Maela’s cross into the box, prompting the referee to point to the penalty spot.

The in-form Mabasa stepped up to convert and made no mistake as he sent the ball past a diving Stanley Nwabali into the bottom corner.

An error-strewn start to the second period nearly left the visitors with an even steeper hill to climb as midfielder Thabo Makhele’s misdirected back pass came close to finding his own net before a desperate scramble from Nwabali who rushed across to make a clearance

Chippa did show glimpses of intent as they looked to claw their way back and could have halved the deficit on the hour mark when Ronaldo Maarman fired at goal, only to be denied a deflection from Tapelo Xoki who had stuck his foot out inside the box.

The two sides traded blows as the clock wound down, with Kabelo Dlamini drawing a save from Nwabali with a long-range effort while Sipho Chaine produced a similar outcome at the other end in keeping out Aviwe Mqokozo’s header.

The Bucs shot-stopper was called upon once more on the 90-minute mark to deny Brooklyn Poggenpoel after the midfielder had unleashed a powerful shot from a fair distance out. This was followed by an injury-time effort from Pirates striker Evidence Makgopa who pushed into space before forcing Nwabali into a save from close range.

The two first-half goals were however all that was needed to settle the contest as the Soweto Giants clinched another vital win to extend a remarkable winning run.

Pirates XI: Chaine, Sesane (Ndah 83’), Xoki, Monyane, Maela, Mbatha, Makhaula (Timm 46’), Dlamini (Kapinga 72’), Mofokeng (Otladisa 89’), Maswanganyi, Mabasa (Makgopa 83’).

The victory secured the Soweto Giants a spot in the final, which will take place in Mbombela, where they will face the winner of Sunday’s semi between Stellenbosch and Mamelodi Sundowns.

In a fast-paced opening half against the Chilli Boys, the Buccaneers had an opportunity right from the first whistle as they charged forward through Relebohile Mofokeng. The teenager made an excellent run on the left flank before locating Tshegofatso Mabasa, whose close-range effort was blocked.

They remained in the hosts’ half of the pitch where Patrick Maswanganyi was brought down a few paces from the penalty area, with referee Abongile Tom duly awarding a free kick.

The set piece brought about the breakthrough just five minutes in, as Kabelo Dlamini produced a stunner of a shot which curled around the defensive wall and left goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali motionless as it went into the net.

This triggered a spirited fightback from the hosts, who had an opportunity to hit back with a set piece goal from a similar range just two minutes after.

Midfielder Brooklyn Poggenpoel was entrusted with the free kick, but could only send his effort off target as he landed the ball on the roof of the net.

Chippa did not take their foot off the pedal as they continued to dominate the middle part of the opening period, pinning the Buccaneers inside their own half while minimising chances at the other end.

Pirates found a rare attacking opportunity on the half-hour mark when Dlamini threaded a lovely through ball for Mabasa, who had the ball in the net only to be flagged offside.

Sipho Chaine’s goal was tested by ex-Bucs defender Craig Martin in the 38th minute when he went for goal from a long way out, but the shot-stopper was positioned on the perfect spot to make a comfortable save.

The visitors made it 2-0 just before the interval as Maswanganyi caught the Chippa defence flat-footed on the right side of the pitch before locating Dlamini, who calmly slotted home from close range to complete his brace.

A set piece on the stroke of halftime came close to producing the home side’s opener as defender Justice Chabalala flicked the ball towards Chaine’s near post, but the Bucs keeper had it covered as he dived low to his left to make a save.

The start of the second period saw the Buccaneers dominating possession as Mofokeng came close to providing the third when he linked up with Maswanganyi on the left before firing wide with his shot at goal.

The home side’s toil for a goal ended in the 63rd minute when striker Bienvenu Eva Nga muscled his way into the Bucs penalty area before setting up a tap-in from close range for substitute attacker Elmo Kambindu.

The goal from the Namibian international set up a dramatic close to the contest as the Chilli Boys sensed an opportunity to draw level.

It appeared as if the equaliser was not very far off until another decisive moment with just nine minutes left on the clock, brought about by a Pirates corner taken short before Maswanganyi delivered a searching ball into the box, turned in at the far post by Tapelo Xoki who bagged his third goal in this year’s competition.

Chippa had a few half-chances in the dying moments, the best of which came from Chabalala who went wide from range.

They were however unable to claw their way back into the contest as the defending champions closed out the game to book their second consecutive Nedbank Cup final.

Pirates XI: Chaine, Xoki, Sesame, Monyane, Hotto (Maela 18’), Makhaula, Mbatha (Timm 46’), Dlamini (Sibisi 78’), Mofokeng (Saleng 87’), Maswanganyi, Mabasa (Makgopa 78’).

A gruelling week away from home concludes with a significant chapter in the Soweto Giants’ title defence as they look to take another step towards their 10th title by seeing off a side looking to book their first cup final since 2021.

Form Guide

Pirates carry crucial momentum to their trip to their Eastern Cape, having won back-to-back games away from home within a span of three days.

They defeated Royal AM 4-0 in a DStv Premiership clash in Pietermaritzburg on Sunday before registering a 2-0 win away to Cape Town City. This has stretched their winning run across competitions to five games, a streak that began in early April with a convincing 7-1 league win at home Lamontville Golden Arrows.

Another impressive display on the road followed that commanding performance as they booked a 4-2 victory in their Nedbank Cup clash against AmaZulu at Moses Mabhida Stadium, marching on in their title defence after breezing past Crystal Lake and Hungry Lions in the earlier rounds.

Their opponents have charted a more dramatic journey to this stage of the competition, having also locked horns with teams from the lower leagues in the opening two rounds before facing off against top-flight opposition for the first time in the quarterfinals.

Chippa scraped past ABC Motsepe League outfit NC Professionals in the Round of 32 before they were drawn at home to another third-tier side in FC Ravens, who they defeated 2-1 in extra time.

They booked their spot in the semis with a 2-0 win away to DStv Premiership rivals TS Galaxy, making it three wins in a row across competitions before adding a fourth with a similar scoreline in a league game against SuperSport United in Atteridgeville.

However, that victory over Matsatsansa has turned out to be the last thus far, as they go into the semifinal on the back of consecutive defeats in games against AmaZulu and Moroka Swallows.

Team News

After resting some of their first-team regulars in midweek, the Chilli Boys are expected to field a changed team on Saturday. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was among the subs against Swallows and could be back in the starting XI, along with defenders Justice Chabalala and Sirgio Kammies who both return from suspension.

They will however be without Sirgio Kammies, who is ruled out of the clash after picking up a red card in the match against AmaZulu.

For the Buccaneers, theoptions at coach Jose Riveiro’s disposal have been bolstered by the return of midfield pair Makhehleni Makhaula and Patrick Maswanganyi. Both players are again eligible for selection after missing the midweek clash against City through suspension after picking up yellow cards against Royal AM.

Fullback Thabiso Lebitso is meanwhile ruled out of the match against his former team as he continues his recovery from an injury picked up on Sunday.

Key Players

Relebohile Mofokeng (Orlando Pirates): The ever-improving Mofokeng continues to impress in what is his first full season with the senior team. The 19-year-old playmaker is fresh off another confident display where he chipped in with two assists to take his tally to 10 goal contributions in the current campaign.

Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United): The shot-stopper has been a standout player for the Chilli Boys, and currently sits on 11 clean sheets in all competitions this season. Nwabali is a commanding figure between the sticks, providing leadership at the back while possessing great anticipation and excellent reflexes.

Head-to-Head

Spoils were shared on Pirates’ last visit to Gqeberha when a second-half strike from Goodman Mosele cancelled out Bandile Shandu’s 24th-minute opener in a league fixture played in August last year.

Saturday’s encounter will be the first cup clash between the two sides since October 2018 when the Buccaneers claimed a narrow victory with Vincent Pule netting the only goal of the match to send his side to the League Cup quarterfinals.

Since then, all fixtures between the two sides have been league matches and the Soweto Giants have dominated with six wins and just one defeat, while only two games have failed to produce a winner.

How to Watch Orlando Pirates vs Chippa United

The game gets underway at 15:00 and will be broadcast live on SuperSport PSL. You can stay in touch with the action as it happens by following live updates posted across Orlando Pirates’ social media platforms, including the Club’s official mobile app.

The Soweto Giants put on another commanding performance on the road to clinch their first-ever league win away to the Citizens, who remain in search of their first win since December.

Heading into the fixture on the back of Sunday’s convincing win, they were kept quiet throughout the early part of their encounter with the Capetonians in a first half that produced minimal chances at both ends.

The home side had a go at the Pirates goal ten minutes in through defender Keanu Cupido, but his long-range effort failed to trouble Sipho Chaine as the Bucs shot-stopper made a comfortable save.

Chaine’s opposite number Darren Keet enjoyed a largely quiet afternoon until well into the opening period when he was called upon following a second phase attack from a corner. The Citizens keeper was drawn into a save by Tshegofatso Mabasa, who made an excellent turn towards goal before releasing a shot from close range.

The Bucs striker had another go in the 34th minute, this time from a long way out, and sent his shot drifting off target. It turned out to be the last of Pirates’ first-half chances as both sides struggled for rhythm right through the opening period.

Much of the action remained in the home side’s half of the pitch in the second half, with Pirates continuing to control matters. They were however unable to produce shots at goal until the 58th minute when Relebohile Mofokeng ran onto a lovely pass from Lesedi Kapinga before forcing Keet into a save.

The teenager would have a hand in the breakthrough just seconds later when he popped up near the halfway line before threading a perfectly weighted pass from Mabasa, who needed no second invitation to add to his goal tally as he calmly slotted home.

The hosts looked to hit back in the 71st minute with Khanyisa Mayo heading at goal from close range, but Chaine was equal to the task. Pirates responded with a chance of their own following a swift counter, which ended as Kapinga went just over the crossbar with his shot from inside the penalty area.

Just as they had broken the deadlock moments after a close call, the Buccaneers doubled their lead in the very next moment. This came via a move initiated by Thalente Mbatha, who turned possession over in the middle of the park, with Thabiso Monyane, Kabelo Dlamini, and Mofokeng all getting a touch before Mabasa notched up his 13th league goal of the season with another composed finish.

Defender Nkosinathi Sibisi could have produced a third goal in the last 10 minutes, but his effort from just in front of goal was kept out.

City launched a desperate search for a goal in the game’s dying moments, with Mayo and Jaedin Rhodes both failing to find the target, while Marc van Heerden managed to draw a save from Chaine when he went direct from a free kick.

Despite being forced to defend throughout injury time, the Buccaneers were able to hang on for another three points as they stretched their winning run in the league to four matches.

Pirates XI: Chaine, Xoki, Sesane (Sibisi 69’), Monyane, Hotto, Mbatha (Ndlondlo 90’), Timm, Dlamini, Mofokeng (Kimvuidi 90’), Kapinga (Otladisa 77’), Mabasa (Makgopa 77’).

Cape Town Stadium hosts this midweek encounter featuring two teams in the top half of the table with just a handful of games left until the end of the season.

Form Guide

It comes three days after the Buccaneers’ last away game where they netted four unanswered goals against Royal AM to strengthen their hold on third place in the Premiership standings.

The victory was their third league win in a row and their fourth match unbeaten, taking their points tally to 10 in their last five games, where they have only suffered a single defeat.

A standout feature in Pirates’ recent run has been their efficiency in front of goal, which has yielded 14 goals during this period while the defence has kept things quiet at the other end with just five netted by the opposition.

Now looking for three more points to climb to second place, the Soweto Giants meet a City outfit desperate to arrest their slide down the standings, as they are yet to celebrate victory in 2024.

Owing to their excellent start to the season, the Cape outfit remains in the top half of the table in sixth place despite not registering a win since December 2023. They have claimed just four out of a possible 15 points in their five most recent outings, drawing four and losing once.

City now face the Buccaneers at the back of consecutive stalemates in games against Polokwane City and Lamontville Golden Arrows and will be determined to turn their fortunes around with a winning performance on Wednesday.

Team News

Sunday’s victory came at some cost for the Buccaneers, who were dealt a blow when right-back Thabiso Lebitso had to be withdrawn inside the opening 20 minutes. His injury rules him out of Wednesday’s fixture, and could mean another opportunity for Thabiso Monyane who put on a tireless shift after coming on as his replacement.

Other notable absentees from the Bucs’ travelling party are midfield duo Patrick Maswanganyi and Makhehleni Makhaula, suspended for their clash after their bookings at Harry Gwala.

There are however some significant boosts for coach Jose Riveiro with Sipho Chaine, Deon Hotto, and Miguel Timm all back from suspension after missing the trip to the Midlands.

Meanwhile, City will welcome back defender Keanu Cupido who has completed a two-match suspension after picking up a red card against AmaZulu.

Key Players

Kabelo Dlamini (Orlando Pirates): After featuring sporadically for much of the first half of the season, Dlamini is back to his best and has been involved in five goals in his last five starts. The midfielder’s passing range from both open play and set pieces makes him a potent creative outlet while also a goal threat through his unerring left boot.

Khanyisa Mayo (Cape Town City): The City forward is enjoying yet another productive season in front of goal, continuing to cement his status as one of the best strikers in the country. With 11 goals scored in the league this season, Mayo is an ever-present threat in front of goal and will command some attention from the Bucs defence.

Head-to-Head

Pirates edged ahead in what has been a tight rivalry when they won 2-0 at home in the reverse fixture, with Zakhele Lepasa and Maswanganyi providing the goals.

The victory was their fourth in 15 league matches against City, who have won three times with eight games finishing in a stalemate.

However, the search for a triumph away to the Citizens continues for the Buccaneers after managing four draws and three defeats in seven visits to the Mother City.

How to Watch Orlando Pirates vs Cape Town City

The match is scheduled to kick off at 15:00 and will be broadcast live on SuperSport PSL. You can stay in touch with the action as it happens by following live updates posted across Orlando Pirates’ social media platforms, including the Club’s official mobile app.

In an afternoon where the Soweto Giants turned in a clinical performance away from home to come away with three important points, the new recruit featured on the scoresheet for the first time since joining the Club, with Patrick Maswanganyi, Relebohile Mofokeng, and Kabelo Dlamini also finding the net.

Mbatha’s 56th-minute strike came at a crucial moment in the game and helped create daylight between the two sides after the Buccaneers had managed to take a one-goal to the break, following a tightly contested opening half. Mainly tasked with the often unseen work in the engine room throughout his career, he showcased a different dimension to his game in providing the game’s second goal when he made an excellent surge into the box to collect a neat pass from Maswanganyi before producing a composed finish to double the advantage.

Reflecting on his landmark moment in an exclusive interview, the 24-year-old shared his delight in getting off the mark in Bucs colours.

“It was a great feeling,” Mbatha told OrlandoPiratesFC.com. “It is actually a dream come true scoring my first goal for Orlando Pirates. I must thank the team, the staff and the technical team for the opportunity and support that they give me every day.”

Mbatha’s first Pirates goal came in his 10th appearance in all competitions since his January loan move from SuperSport United, where he had featured five times during the first half of the season. He describes the start of his Bucs career as a big learning opportunity and has noted some improvements in his game.

Having been brought in to bolster an already stacked midfield, the player revealed that he embraces the challenge of having to fight for his place in the starting team.

“It’s good competition,” Mbatha said. “It’s a good challenge and helps me stay on my feet and try to improve all the time. I cannot afford to make many mistakes. So I think the competition that we have in the team is healthy. We should all just play our game and whoever gets the opportunity must use it.”

Following their triumph in Pietermaritzburg, the Buccaneers have a busy week ahead. They kick it off with a midweek Premiership assignment away to Cape Town City before voyaging along the coast for a stop in Gqeberha for a Nedbank Cup semifinal clash against Chippa United on the weekend.

Mbatha says the team’s immediate focus is the trip to the Mother City, where they will be looking to add three more points to their league tally.

“As the coach says, we take each game as it comes,” he said. “We take it one day at a time. I think we should prepare ourselves mentally and physically. It’s not going to be an easy game as we are playing away. If we do play the football we want and do what the coach tells us, we’ll definitely come back with the three points.”

Pirates’ game against City takes place on Wednesday, kicking off at 15:00.

The Bucs medical team has revealed to Orlandopiratesfc.com that the 28 year old right back has suffered a broken collarbone, which requires surgical intervention.

The prognosis of how long Lebitso will be out for will be known post his procedure.

The result stretches the Buccaneers’ winning run in the league to three matches, while they remain third in the standings with just five games left to play.

Coming up against KwaZulu-Natal opposition for a fourth game in as many weeks, the Soweto Giants were made to contend with a determined effort early on from the hosts, who were first to fire a shot at goal. It was a fifth-minute opportunity spurned by Sedwyn George, who made his way into the Bucs’ penalty area but could only send his shot off target from close range.

Pirates however controlled possession throughout most of the opening quarter, making regular entry into opposition territory. They had a chance of their own in the 12th minute when Patrick Maswanganyi latched onto a loose ball just outside the box before firing straight at Royal AM keeper Mondli Mpoto.

Thalente Mbatha followed this up with another long-range effort seven minutes later, but his shot did not trouble the Thwihli Thwahla shot-stopper as it landed well off target.

The chance for a breakthrough came just before the half-hour mark when the visitors were awarded a penalty after a foul on Maswanganyi. The Bucs midfielder dusted himself up to take the spot kick, making no mistake in finding the bottom corner despite Mpoto’s best efforts at keeping the ball out.

Thwihli Thwahla’s response was a spirited one as they immediately set about finding the equaliser, and a storming run from Khetukuthula Ndlovu nearly produced the goods when he cut inside from the left flank before dragging his shot wide.

Their best chance to draw level came on the stroke of halftime via a free kick taken by George on the edge of the penalty area. He was denied by a vital touch from Bucs keeper Melusi Buthelezi, who tipped the ball onto the crossbar to keep the visitors ahead at the break.

The tone of the contest changed in the second period with the Buccaneers looking more cohesive in attack.

They found the net 11 minutes after the restart when Maswanganyi threaded a lovely ball through the middle for Mbatha, who opened his Bucs account with a composed finish to make it 2-0.

A goalmouth scramble initiated by Thabiso Monyane just two minutes after the second goal nearly produced the third. This was when Mpoto parried the right back’s shot into the path of Tshegofatso Mabasa but the striker directed his effort off the rebound wide of the target.

Pirates’ next chance came off a wayward pass from Mpoto who scrambled back to make a save after his attempt at playing from the back was disrupted by Mbatha, with the midfielder showing excellent anticipation to make an interception.

They remained dominant throughout the second half and added to their goal tally in the 74th minute when Kabelo Dlamini located Relebohile Mofokeng in space, and the teenager produced a quality finish to set up an uphill climb for the home side.

With just eight minutes remaining on the clock, Dlamini got his name on the scoresheet in fine style as he found the top corner with a first-time shot from range to put the result well beyond doubt.

That turned out to be the last of the Buccaneers’ goals on a day when they produced a clinical performance to complete a league double over Thwihli Thwahla.

Pirates XI: Buthelezi, Xoki (Mthethwa 60’), Sesane, Lebitso (Monyane 17’), Maela, Makhaula, Mbatha, Saleng (Dlamini 60’), Mofokeng (Kimvuidi 87’), Maswanganyi (Kapinga 87’), Mabasa.

Just six league fixtures remain for the Buccaneers as they look for a strong finish to the campaign, with an eye on strengthening their bid for participation in continental football next season.

Form Guide

They journey to Pietermaritzburg while in third place in the standings after notching up a hard-fought three points in their last outing at home to AmaZulu. The win was their second in a row in the league, taking their points tally over the last five games to 10 thanks to three wins and a draw.

All of Pirates’ victories during this period have come on home turf, while they have managed just one point out of a possible six on the road. It’s an unwanted record they will be desperate to overturn as away fixtures currently make up half of their remaining league games.

A win on Sunday moves them back up to second place, but this could be a tricky assignment against a Royal AM side that has proven unpredictable throughout the season.

Thwihli Thwahla go into the fixture looking for a way up from 12th place, where they are currently situated after a one-all stalemate in their KZN derby clash against Lamontville Golden Arrows last Saturday.

The point earned against Abafana Bes’thende took them to seven points in their last five matches, where they have won both their home games alongside defeats away to Stellenbosch and TS Galaxy.

Their sights are now set on their game against the Buccaneers with three points placing them within touching distance of the top eight, where they will be looking to finish at the end of the season.

Team News

Changes can be expected in the Pirates team that will line up at Harry Gwalla, with three First Team players suspended for the clash.

Sipho Chaine, Deon Hotto, and Miguel Timm were among the 12 players booked in a highly physical encounter against AmaZulu. The yellow cards picked up by the trio triggered a one-match suspension for each player, ruling them out of Sunday’s game.

For Royal AM, coach John Maduka has close to a full squad to call upon while midfielder Moffat Mdluli and goalkeeper Marlon Heugh – both yet to feature this season – are likely to remain sidelined.

Key Players

Tshegofatso Mabasa (Orlando Pirates): The 27-year-old has been the form marksman in the league, and added to his goal tally with another well-taken strike against Usuthu. Clinical in front of goal with excellent movement inside the box, Mabasa is a classic goal-poacher with an uncanny ability to position himself at the right place at the right time.

Kabelo Mahlasela (Royal AM): Thwihli Thwahla will likely be led out by the Bucs Academy product, who has demonstrated his value throughout the season. Mahlasela has mainly operated in the centre of the midfield, occasionally advancing into the number 10 pocket, and has chipped in with four league assists.

Head-to-Head

Six goals were scored when the two sides last met with the Buccaneers emerging victorious in an entertaining encounter at Orlando Stadium, which finished 4-2 in their favour courtesy of a brace from Zakhele Lepasa, accompanied by goals from Monnapule Saleng and Bandile Shandu.

Pirates have met Royal AM five times in the league, winning twice, while three games have ended with a share of the spoils.

The Buccaneers are also comfortably in front regarding goals scored in the fixture after finding the net six times, while their opponents boast just three goals.

How to Watch Orlando Pirates vs Royal AM

The game is scheduled to kick off at 15:00 and will be televised live on SuperSport PSL. You can also catch live updates posted across Orlando Pirates social media platforms, including the Club’s official app.

The fixture is one of two back-to-back home games for the Bucs Reserves before concluding their campaign with a visit to Polokwane City.

Form Guide

It comes after a successful outing at Lucas Moripe Stadium, where Ciniso Mazibuko netted the game’s only goal to see off a stubborn Chippa United.

The victory was only the young Buccaneers’ second win in their last five games, where they have lost twice and drawn once in what has been a long spell of indifferent form in the final third of their season.

Currently in third place with just nine points on offer in the remainder of the campaign, Saturday’s clash is a must-win for the Buccaneers in their bid for a strong finish.

They will have to contend with a ninth-place Richards Bay outfit eyeing a top-eight finish after landing in the bottom three in their debut season in the Reserve League.

The Natal Rich Boyz were held to a goalless stalemate by KZN rivals Lamontville Golden Arrows in their most recent fixture and are searching for their first win since March. They won the first two of their last five games, and have since gone on to play to two draws and a defeat.

Three points on Saturday will strengthen their chances of finishing inside the top half of the table in only their second season.

Head-to-Head

Pirates were victorious the last time the two sides met, overcoming a one-man disadvantage to claim a 2-0 victory courtesy of goals from Ciniso Mazibuko and Mehluleli Maphumulo.

Their rivalry with Richards Bay began last season when Njabulo Mndebele and Mpumelelo Ndaba each found the net to ensure a 2-0 home victory before playing to a goalless stalemate in the latter part of the campaign.

The Natal Rich Boyz will not only be looking for their first win over the Buccaneers on Saturday, but also their first goal, while the hosts look to become the first team to complete a league double in the fixture.

How to Follow Orlando Pirates Reserves vs Richards Bay Reserves

Kick-off is at 10:00 and the game will not be televised. You can follow the action by keeping an eye on live updates posted across Orlando Pirates social media platforms.

It was a return to winning ways for the Bucs Reserves who began the weekend in third position with just four games left in the ongoing campaign.

They enjoyed all of the game’s early opportunities, mainly attacking from the flanks where forward Ciniso Mazibuko was especially prominent on the right. The teenager was first to fire a shot at goal, drawing a save from goalkeeper Tyrique Simons who went low to his left to cover his near post. 

The resultant corner presented another opportunity as defender Mbekezile Mbokazi headed over the crossbar when he was pinpointed by Jabulani Mokone.

It remained one-way traffic throughout the opening 20 minutes with Mazibuko forcing Simons into another stop in the 17th minute after cutting inside from the right to fire at goal from outside the box.

Midfielder Tebogo Masemola could only hit the side netting with his attempt in the 29th minute, while clear-cut chances came few and far between throughout the closing third of the opening period. This was until the stroke of halftime when Mokone delivered an excellent cutback toward an unmarked Simphiwe Masilela who was unable to keep his shot down as he fired over the crossbar.

Pirates began the second half much like they started the first with striker Mehluleli Maphumulo getting a shot in just two minutes after the restart, only to be denied by Simons.

The burly Bucs forward continued to trouble the defence, but could not find a way past the Chilli Boys shot stopper who pulled off a brilliant double stop in the 51st minute to keep things level.

Chippa’s first real chance came through Thando Jacobs who shot wide when presented with a golden opportunity to put his side ahead from close range.

Pirates made the most of the let off as they took the lead just after the hour mark through Mazibuko, who finally had the better of Simons when he made an excellent run on the flank before sneaking the ball inside the near post to make it 1-0.

He remained heavily involved on attack, linking up with Masilela whose 74th minute shot was kept out by Simons, with skipper Kgwadi Molepo sending in a follow-up shot which was deflected narrowly wide of the target.

The visitors could have stolen a point deep in injury time when Sinakokonke Mthembu headed at goal from just in front, but Bucs keeper Khumoetsile Rathokolo was perfectly-positioned to make a comfortable save.

That  concluded the goalmouth action at either end as the Bucs Reserves saw out the game to complete a league double over the Eastern Cape-based side.  

Pirates Reserves XI: Rathokolo, Magugwana, Mbokazi, Mokone, Mhlambi (Mohlala 81’), Molepo, Selepe (Chibwe 77’), Masemola (Dansin 77’), Mazibuko, Masilela (Nzimande 77’), Maphumulo.

It’s an early-morning kick-off for the young Buccaneers and the Chilli Boys, who get Sunday’s festivities underway.

Form Guide 

Inconsistent results have derailed the Soweto Giants’ charge for the title at a very crucial period of their campaign and they now head to Sunday’s clash in third place, eight points behind the log-leading Stellenbosch. This is after falling to a 1-0 defeat to the team from the Cape Winelands in their most recent outing held at Solomon Mahlangu Stadium last Sunday.

It was their second defeat in their last five games, where they have only managed five points out of a possible 15 through a solitary win and two draws.

Having finished the first half of the season as the league’s best attacking team, the Bucs Reserves’ free-scoring exploits appear to be a thing of the past. They have only four goals to show for their efforts over the past five weeks, all coming from their 4-0 win against rivals Moroka Swallows.

Pirates will be looking to rediscover their scoring boots against a Chippa side enduring a rough patch of their own, with defeats in each of their last four games.

The young Chilli Boys boast a solitary point in their five most recent fixtures, which came via a one-all stalemate at home to Sekhukhune United and are currently 12th in the standings.

They will be eager to kickstart a strong finish to their campaign with an upset victory over the Buccaneers, who are also desperate to overturn their own fortunes.

Head-to-Head 

Pirates are looking to complete a league double over their Chippa counterparts, following their victory in the reverse fixture where Mbekezile Mbokazi, Mohau Nkota, and Senzelumusa Sibiya each found the net in the second half to ensure a convincing 3-0 victory.

It was the Bucs Reserves’ third straight win against the Chilli Boys, whose last victory in the fixture came over two years ago when they claimed a 3-2 win in Gqeberha.

Four of the last five games between the two sides have gone the way of the Buccaneers, who have scored an impressive 12 goals while only conceding five.

How to Watch Orlando Pirates Reserves vs Chippa United Reserves 

The game starts at 9:30 and will be televised live on SuperSport PSL and Variety 4. Live updates will be shared across Orlando Pirates social media channels.

Entry at the match venue is free.

It was a second win over Usuthu in as many weeks for the Buccaneers, who move a spot up the standings to second place after collecting all three points.

After engaging in a thrilling cup encounter that produced six goals at Moses Mabhida, the league clash in Soweto began in subdued fashion as each side produced a solitary shot at goal to show inside the opening 20 minutes.

Patrick Maswanganyi was the first to fire goalward in the fourth minute, finding Veli Mothwa’s gloves with a miscued attempt after making a threatening run into the penalty area. This was followed up by a close call at the other end just five minutes later when Victor Letsoalo deflected an excellent ball from Mobara towards the Pirates goal, with the upright coming to the hosts’ rescue.

The game was turned on its head just after the 20-minute mark when Maswanganyi went on another storming run before meeting an overzealous challenge from Mobara just outside the penalty area, with the Usuthu defender shown a straight red after his foul was deemed to have prevented a clear goal-scoring opportunity.

Kabelo Dlamini took the resultant free kick and sent his shot drifting wide of the target, and that turned out to be Pirates’ last opportunity for the best part of the first period as the visitors closed shop at the back.

Usuthu had a chance to edge ahead on the stroke of halftime through a well-struck shot from Ethan Brooks, who drew an excellent save from Bucs keeper Sipho Chaine.

Pirates piled on the pressure early in the second half without carving a clear path to the AmaZulu goal and were nearly caught out against the run of play when a misplaced pass was intercepted by Ben Motshwari, whose long-range shot was kept out by Chaine.

The introduction of fresh legs in the form of Thalente Mbatha, Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo, and Monnapule Saleng injected some energy into the hosts’ attack as they continued their search for the opener.

They found the breakthrough in the 75th minute when Maswanganyi released Saleng out wide with the replacement attacker delivering an excellent ball into the middle for Tshegofatso Mabasa, who only needed a single touch to make it 1-0.

Usuthu’s pursuit of the equaliser presented chances for the Buccaneers, who had some bright moments in transition play as the game drew to a close. The best of these came from the boot of Saleng who darted down the right flank before cutting inside to shoot, drawing a save from Mothwa.

The home side were able to use their numerical advantage to great effect as they sought to close out the game, controlling possession during an extended injury time to notch up back-to-back victories against the men from KwaZulu-Natal.

Pirates XI: Chaine, Xoki, Sesane, Makhaula (Mbatha 46’), Timm (Ndlondlo 62’), Dlamini (Saleng 62’), Lebitso, Hotto, Maswanganyi, Mofokeng (Kimvuidi 73’), Mabasa.

Seven days since squaring up in a thrilling cup encounter held at Moses Mabhida Stadium, three league points are on the line this time around with Soweto hosting the two oldest clubs in the top flight.

Form Guide  

Usuthu take to the road with a point to prove after bowing out of the Nedbank Cup following the epic clash that finished in a 4-2 scoreline in favour of the Buccaneers. 

They remain in the bottom half of the league table with seven games left to play and will look to improve on their recent return, having managed just six points out of a possible 15 through one win and three draws in their last five games. 

A win on Saturday will be their second in as many recent away games and has the potential to launch them up from 12th place to within touching distance of a spot in the top eight.

However, they face a daunting challenge as they come up against a Pirates side high in confidence after notching up an astonishing 11 goals in their last two outings.

The Soweto Giants start the weekend in third place in the standings after their 7-1 routing of Lamontville Golden Arrows at Orlando Stadium. 

With eight points earned through two wins and as many draws in their last five league games, Jose Riveiro’s troops will be on a mission to add another three to their tally.

Further success against Usuthu could see them swap spots with second-placed Stellenboscg, putting them on good footing in what has shaped up to be a fierce contest for spots in continental competition next season.

Team News 

Defensive duo Nkosinathi Sibisi and Tapelo Xoki are again in contention for places in the match-day squad after both players missed out on the trip to Durban through suspension. 

Another boost for Pirates is the looming return of striker Evidence Makgopa, who is back at training after over a month on the sidelines.

For AmaZulu, midfielder Ethan Brooks is again an option for coach Pablo Franco Martin having served the one-match suspension that forced him out of the cup quarterfinal. 

Key Players

Patrick Maswanganyi (Orlando Pirates): The attacking midfielder was instrumental in the Buccaneers’ victory over the weekend, putting on a near-flawless display en route to being named Man of the Match. A constant threat in opposition territory, Maswanganyi has impressed with his ability to punch holes in the most resilient of defences and has chipped in with 16 goal contributions in all competitions this season.

Pule Ekstein (AmaZulu): Ekstein was AmaZulu’s standout player at Moses Mabhida, continuing his impressive form for the Durban-based outfit. The 33-year-old’s experience and versatility make him a crucial asset for Usuthu, who have deployed him in various positions in the midfield.

Head-to-Head 

Saturday’s cup win stretched Pirates’ long unbeaten run over AmaZulu, who last tasted victory against the Soweto Giants in an away league clash in August 2013 when Bongani Ndulula’s 33rd-minute strike separated the two sides.

The Durban outfit has since gone 15 league games without a win, with the Buccaneers emerging victorious on seven occasions while eight fixtures have finished in a draw.

The last of these stalemates occurred earlier this season when neither side managed to find the net in the Premiership clash held at Moses Mabhida.

How to Watch Orlando Pirates vs AmaZulu 

The game kicks off at 17:30 and will be broadcast live on SuperSport PSL. Live updates will be posted across Orlando Pirates’ social media platforms and the Club’s official mobile app throughout the match.

Tickets are available online on TicketPro and selected outlets nationwide.

The Soweto Giants thrilled and entertained in the past month, scoring a host of stunning goals in both the DStv Premiership and the Nedbank Cup, and nine of them have made the shortlist for the OPPOxPIRATES Goal of the Month.

Attacking pair Monnapule Saleng and Tshegofatso Mabasa frequently featured on the scoresheet throughout the month, and their goal-scoring exploits have been rewarded with three nominations apiece. 

Two of Saleng’s shortlisted goals were scored in the 3-2 Soweto Derby win against Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium, while he also struck in the 4-0 victory over Hungry Lions. Mabasa also produced a double of his own, striking twice against Northern Cape-based outfit, and was again on the scoresheet in Polokwane when the Buccaneers visited for a league game away to Sekhukhune United.

Also on the list is striker Evidence Makgopa, whose second-half header against Polokwane City ensured a hard-fought victory on the road. His goal is nominated alongside Relebohile Mofokeng’s brilliantly taken opening goal in the league stalemate against Cape Town Spurs, while Thabiso Lebitso’s stunning long-range strike against Chiefs also makes the cut.

One lucky fan could be a winner simply by replying with the goal they believe is the OPPOxPIRATES Goal of the Month for March 2024 on Orlando Pirates official social media platforms.

March 2024 OPPO Goal of the Month Nominees:

A: Evidence Makgopa vs Polokwane City
B: Relebohile Mofokeng vs Cape Town Spurs
C: Monnapule Saleng vs Kaizer Chiefs 
D: Tshegofatso Mabasa vs Hungry Lions 
E: Tshegofatso Mabasa vs Sekhukhune United 
F: Monnapule Saleng vs Hungry Lions 
G: Tshegofatso Mabasa vs Hungry Lions 
H: Thabiso Lebitso vs Kaizer Chiefs 
I: Monnapule Saleng vs Kaizer Chiefs 

Makhaula, facing his former club, seized the opportunity to make his mark by netting a crucial goal during the match. Yet, it wasn’t just his goal that captured attention; it was the comedic turn of events that followed shortly after.

In a twist of fate, moments after his goal, Makhaula found himself sprinting the length of the pitch, only to be swiftly substituted due to exhaustion. However, what ensued was a heartwarming and comical exchange captured on video: Makhaula dashed towards goalkeeper Sipho Chaine, embracing him in an emotional moment of celebration.

Reflecting on this memorable incident, Makhaula shared his perspective with Orlandopiratesfc.com, shedding light on the backstory of his jubilant sprint. “Before the game, Chaine came to me and made a bold prediction that I would score,” Makhaula revealed with a chuckle. “At the time, I didn’t take it seriously, considering I hadn’t scored in over eight years.”

“So, when the moment arrived, the first person that came to mind was Chaine. I sprinted so hard but only for my body to betray me,” he recounted jokingly.

Makhaula’s sprint may have been short-lived, but the camaraderie and laughter it sparked lingered long after the final whistle blew. In a game often characterized by fierce competition and high stakes, moments like these serve as a reminder of the human side of football, where bonds are forged amidst the intensity of the sport.

It was a welcome return to form for the young Buccaneers, who turned in a dominant performance to register their first win since early March.

In their second away fixture in as many weeks, the visitors sought to overturn their fortunes and were quick off the blocks, creating the game’s first chance at goal just seconds after the first whistle. The opportunity fell to forward Simphiwe Masilela, whose header drew a save from the keeper after a swift move upfield.

The Bucs attacker, along with Mohau Nkota and Gosiame Ngobeni, provided further chances at goal as the visitors piled pressure on the home side in the opening 10 minutes.

Swallows had opportunities of their own but met a determined defensive effort led by centre-back Mbekezile Mbokazi and debutant Khumoetsile Rathokolo who started between the sticks.

It took until the half-hour mark for Pirates to find the opener, which came through Mbokazi who had remained in an advanced position following a corner kick and made no mistake in slotting home to make it 1-0.

The wait for the second goal only lasted a mere seven minutes as Cemran Dansin sparked a move to release Nkota out wide, with the winger beating his man before locating Ngobeni who calmly doubled the lead.

Despite a comfortable advantage, the Buccaneers were unrelenting as two quickly became three in the space of seconds when Nkota combined with Mazibuko, who added his name to the scorecard five minutes before the break.

Masilela could have provided the fourth on the stroke of halftime, but his header fell just wide when he connected with an inviting cross from deep while Ngobeni did shoot on target with his effort moments later, only to be denied by the keeper.

Looking to reduce the deficit, Swallows enjoyed a positive start to the second period forcing Rathokolo into a couple of saves.

The Buccaneers had some chances of their own, with Ngobeni and replacement winger Aphelele Nzimande each going within inches of providing the fourth.

The goal did not elude the Buccaneers for long as another late replacement in Tshepo Mhlambi joined the action when he located Nzimande, who made amends for his earlier miss by slotting home to make it 4-0 in the 79th minute.

It remained one-way traffic in the dying stages, with the visitors looking to pile on further misery on the hosts, who managed to avoid conceding a fifth goal.

The final whistle sounded shortly as the Bucs Reserves claimed a crucial three points to move from fourth place to third in the standings.

Pirates Reserves XI: Rathokolo, Magugwana, Mbokazi, Mokone, Mohlala, Molepo, Dansin (Mhlambi 74’), Mazibuko (Masemola 74’), Nkota (Nzimande 74’), Ngobeni, Masilela (Selepe 65’).

It’s a second Soweto Derby in the space of three weeks for the Bucs Reserves, who are desperate to make the most of the few points available to them with just half a dozen fixtures remaining in their campaign.

Form Guide 

Winning form has eluded the young Buccaneers over the past few weeks, with no victories registered in their last four fixtures. This has seen them drop out of the top three for the first time in 2024, and they currently sit in fourth place with a seven-point difference between themselves and the log leaders.

They have only managed five points in their five most recent outings, winning one and drawing two games while also falling on the losing side twice.

Their last result was a disappointing stalemate away to Sekhukhune United where neither side could find the net, with the game eventually finishing goalless.

For Swallows, the Derby could be an opportunity to launch a strong finish to a season where wins have been hard to come by throughout.

The Birds have just three points to show for their efforts in their last five fixtures, all secured via a rare victory in their game against fellow strugglers TS Galaxy which took place two weeks ago.

Currently in 14th place, they will be seeking a vast improvement on their last result – a 3-2 defeat to a 10-man Polokwane City on home turf.

Head-to-Head 

This will only be the seventh DDC meeting between the two Soweto outfits, whose rivalry in the competition only dates back to the shortened 2021 season.

Each of the six previous matches has produced a winner, with the Bucs Reserves currently the more dominant side with four victories. This includes the reverse fixture at Rand Stadium where Lonwabo Magugwana and Lulama Nxumalo each got on the scorecard before a late brace from Mohau Nkota completed a 4-0 routing.

The hosts will not only be seeking their third win over their neighbours but also their first on home turf, with both their victories in this fixture coming on the road.

How to Follow Orlando Pirates Reserves vs Moroka Swallows Reserves 

The match is scheduled to kick off at 12:00 and will not be televised. You can keep in touch with the action as it happens by following live updates posted across Orlando Pirates’ social media platforms.

After a tough two fixtures on the road where they managed a single point, home comforts provided a remarkable turnaround in fortunes for the Buccaneers who went into the clash looking to ascend from fourth place in the standings.

It did not take them long to find some rhythm on Saturday when they dominated proceedings from the get-go but survived an early scare 10 minutes in when Kagiso Malinga went one-on-one with Sipho Chaine, who had an easy save to make in the end after a tame shot from the Arrows attacker.

The missed chance haunted the visitors almost immediately as the Soweto Giants found the opener, following an attempt at goal from Makhehlene Makhaula. The midfielder’s stinging shot from just inside the box was parried by goalkeeper Sifiso Mlungwana who could only guide it as far as the approaching Tshegofatso Mabasa, with the Bucs striker calmly turning the ball into the net.

Relebohile Mofokeng had an opportunity to make it 2-0 seconds after the restart when he peeled off the defence on the left flank, only to be denied by the Arrows shot-stopper.

A near-identical opportunity was set up through an excellent diagonal pass from Patrick Maswanganyi, and the teenager made amends for the earlier miss and displayed excellent skill and composure in taking Mlungwana out of the equation before outfoxing Thabani Zuke to slot home the second goal in the 14th minute.

The home side continued to stamp their authority and could have been three goals to the good inside the opening quarter when Mofokeng’s first-time shot from close range was kept out by the keeper.

The third goal came just after the hour mark through Kabelo Dlamini, who was unmarked as he received a piercing through-ball from Mofokeng before firing past Mlungwana with a well-taken shot.

Pirates had an opportunity to extend their lead further on the stroke of halftime after Maswanganyi was fouled inside the box, prompting the referee to point to the spot. Mabasa stepped up to take the penalty, but could not convert as he drew a save from Mlungwana.

The in-form Bucs striker however did not have to wait long to grab his second, which came just six minutes after the break when he finished from close range, turning a superb cross from Thabiso Lebitso into the net

There was a near miss from Dlamini in the 59th minute when he dragged his shot narrowly off target after being played in by Mofokeng, who had two close calls of his own when he volleyed over the crossbar following a clever chip down the middle from Timm before striking the upright with a low angled shot from just inside the box.

The Buccaneers eventually found their fifth goal of the evening and it came via replacement defender Sandile Mthethwa, who was pinpointed by Dlamini with an accurate ball into the box to head in from close range.

The five-goal lead only lasted two minutes as Arrows hit back in the 77th minute through Lungelo Nguse, who struck past substitute keeper Siyabonga Mpontshane to reduce the deficit to four.

The hosts were however quick to restore their five-goal lead just seconds after conceding, with Mabasa completing his hat-trick after combining with Lebitso once more.

Nguse could have bagged his second late in the encounter following an error from Mpontshane but rushed his shot, sending it well off target from close range.

The rampant Soweto Giants had the final say in proceedings as another substitution in Karim Kimvuidi stamped his mark on the contest by pouncing on a loose ball inside the box before firing past Mlungwana to make it 7-1.

That proved to be the last goal for the evening capping an incredible performance from the Buccaneers who move to third place in the standings.

Pirates XI: Chaine (Mpontshane 54’), Xoki (Mthethwa 46’), Sesane, Lebitso, Hotto (Maela 54’), Timm, Makhaula (Ndlondlo 66’), Dlamini, Mofokeng, Maswanganyi (Kimvuidi 80’), Mabasa.

A busy week concludes with another crucial league outing for the Buccaneers, who renew rivalries with Abafana Bes’thende as the season heads toward the final stretch.

Form Guide

They return home following a gruelling few days on the road where they only managed a single point over two matches, a turn of results that has seen them drop to fourth place in the standings.

The last of these outcomes was a one-all stalemate in the Original Soweto Derby against rivals Moroka Swallows, who netted first at Dobsonville Stadium before Patrick Maswanganyi’s second-half equaliser secured a point for the Buccaneers.

It was their second draw in five matches, taking their points tally over this period to eight points notched up through two wins and as many draws.

Pirates now gear up for an Arrows side unbeaten in their last three games, fresh off a 2-2 draw at home to SuperSport United where they came back from two goals down to steal a point and maintain ninth place in the standings.

The Durbanites have secured seven points in their last five matches, all coming in their three most recent outings where they have won twice and played to a single stalemate.

They head to Orlando Stadium looking to further underline their resurgent form, with victory holding the potential to push them back into the top eight.

Team News 

Arrows have had a few key players sidelined over the past few weeks, with Brandon Theron and Velemseni Ndwandwe among those likely to sit out yet another fixture. The visitors will also be sweating over the availability of defender Nduduzo Mhlongo, who was withdrawn early against SuperSport.

Similarly, the Buccaneers have Bandile Shandu and Evidence Makgopa among those still making their way back to full fitness.

Meanwhile, Bucs coach Jose Riveiro will be forced into a change in the center of the defence with Nkosinathi Sibisi unable to face his former side after being given his marching orders late in the match against Swallows.

Key Players 

Tshegofatso Mabasa (Orlando Pirates): The striker has hit the ground running on his return to Pirates colours, seamlessly fitting back in after his recent loan spell. In just seven appearances across competitions for the Buccaneers this season, Mabasa has found the net four times, taking his tally to 10 goals for the season.

Nduduzo Sibiya (Golden Arrows): Able to operate in various positions up front, Sibiya is a busy presence on attack and will be key for Arrows on Saturday. The 28-year-old has mainly started on the wings but has been equally effective in more central positions, tallying up a total of six goals across competitions this season.

Head-to-Head

Pirates will be looking to complete back-to-back league doubles over Arrows, whom they defeated 2-1 in Durban through goals from Patrick Maswanganyi and Karim Kimvuidi.

The KwaZulu-Natal outfit has had scant pickings throughout the rivalry, last registering a win against the Soweto Giants a little over three years ago when they scored two unanswered goals at home.

The vast majority of encounters between the two sides have gone the way of the Buccaneers, who have secured wins in 20 of the 37 league matches played since 2004 while only suffering six defeats.

How to Watch Orlando Pirates vs Golden Arrows 

Kick-off is at 17:30 and the game will televised live on SuperSport PSL. You can follow the action as it happens by keeping an eye on live updates shared across Orlando Pirates social media platforms, including the Club’s official mobile app.

Tickets to attend the match are available on TicketPro online and in selected outlets nationwide.

In their second consecutive away fixture, the Buccaneers were determined to return to winning ways having suffered their first defeat of the year on their recent trip to Polokwane, where they lost 2-1 to Sekhukhune United over the weekend.

An erratic start almost saw them concede just seconds after the first whistle as a misdirected pass from Sipho Chaine led to a turnover of possession, resulting in a shot for Letsie Koapeng, who was denied by a crossbar.

This seemed to spring the visitors into life as they spent considerable time inside the Swallows half, conjuring a few goal attempts. The best of these came in the 21st minute via an inviting ball from the left flank delivered by Kabelo Dlamini into the direction of Tshegofatso Mabasa, who did all but connect well enough with the cross as his header went off-target.

They were made to rue the missed opportunities just five minutes after when another error at the back gifted the hosts an opportunity to take the lead, with Lindokuhle Mtshali duly slotting home past the outstretched Chaine.

The tricky conditions continued to play a part in the contest as Swallows nearly benefitted from one more defensive slip-up in the 31st minute, but the Bucs shot-stopper was perfectly positioned to make a relatively easy grab from a Koapeng shot.

Pirates had a couple of chances late in the first half when Mabasa headed into the side netting from close range before Deon Hotto fired narrowly off target from a fair distance out.

The visitors’ pursuit for the equaliser continued in the early stages of the second period, with midfielder Miguel Timm forcing a save off Daniel Akpeyi with a shot from range.

It only took them eight minutes after the restart to draw level, and the decisive moment came via some superb work on the right flank from Thabiso Lebitso, whose cutback was met by an accurate first-time shot from the onrushing Patrick Maswanganyi.

They immediately set about looking for their second and appeared to have found it through Thalente Mbatha who peeled away from the defence to turn an excellent cross from Hotto into the net, only to be flagged offside.

The Buccaneers continued to control matters in the second half and had a golden opportunity spurned with 13 minutes remaining on the clock when Maswanganyi’s ball into the box landed in the path of Relebohile Mofokeng who had Akpeyi beat but placed his shot over the bar.

Further chances fell to the visitors late in the contest, with Mabasa and late sub Zakhele Lepasa both unable to find the net with headed attempts from close range. This was before the loss of Sibisi, who was handed a straight red in injury time for dissent.

The late winner remained elusive in the end as Pirates were made to settle for a point, which keeps them in fourth place in the Premiership standings.

Pirates XI: Chaine, Xoki, Sibisi, Lebitso, Hotto, Timm (Ndondlo 67’), Mbatha (Lepasa 90’), Maswanganyi, Mofokeng (Kapinga 76’), Dlamini (Maela 76’), Mabasa.

The upcoming edition of the iconic Original Derby takes place at Dobsonville Stadium, and it’s the second of back-to-back assignments on the road for the Buccaneers. 

Form Guide 

Their previous venture into rival turf yielded their first defeat of 2024 as they lost 2-1 to Sekhukhune United in a match played at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday. The result ended a two-match winning run across competitions and saw them drop from second to fourth place.

Pirates have collected eight points in their last five games in the Premiership, with six of those coming courtesy of wins against Polokwane City and Kaizer Chiefs. Over this period, they have found the net just seven times, while conceding six goals. 

The upcoming midweek fixture presents an opportunity to initiate a consistent run of results, which will be crucial in determining where they finish as the end of the season looms.

Looking to throw a spanner in the works is a Swallows outfit desperate to gain some momentum of their own, following a positive result in their last fixture.

The Birds ended a four-match winless run in the league with a dramatic 1-0 win away to Cape Town Spurs, with the three points earned in the game taking their tally to five in their last five outings where they have been beaten twice and played to as many stalemates. The solitary strike in their most recent match was only their third during this period, while their defence has been breached six times.

Having jumped one spot to 13th place in the league standings, Swallows head into their match against Pirates looking to string results together in a bid to continue working their way up from the bottom half of the table.

Team News 

The quick turnaround between fixtures could prompt both coaches to refresh their lineups following demanding assignments on the road for the two camps.

Nkosinathi Sibisi, Tapelo Xoki, Thabang Monare, and Patrick Maswanganyi are some of the names that could be back in the matchday squad for Pirates after sitting out the match at Peter Mokaba Stadium following their recent Bafana call-ups.

Meanwhile, Swallows will be without striker Gabadinho Mhango who is ruled out following yellow-card suspension. Coach Musa Nyatama could re-integrate the likes of Thabang Maponya and Letsie Koapeng, both unused subs in the game against Spurs.

Key Players 

Deon Hotto (Orlando Pirates): The 33-year-old has been a consistent performer for the Buccaneers this season, ceaselessly impacting both ends of the pitch. Through his tireless energy on the flank, Hotto has been especially effective on attack and boasts six assists in all competitions including one in each of his last two games.

Daniel Akpeyi (Moroka Swallows): The veteran goalkeeper’s quality and experience have shone through amid a tough season endured by the Birds. A commanding presence in the penalty area, the former Nigerian international will be key for his side’s chances against a determined Bucs outfit.

Head-to-Head 

Pirates were triumphant in the last Original Derby, winning 2-0 through a first-half strike from Evidence Makgopa and a Sipho Sibiya own goal late in the league clash played at Orlando Stadium earlier in the season.

Completing a league double on Wednesday will extend their winning streak in the iconic fixture to four games, while Swallows remain on the hunt for their first league win against their rivals since the start of the 2014/15 campaign.

Since the Birds’ return to the top flight in 2020, the Buccaneers have been by far the more dominant side, winning four of the seven matches played with the other three ending in a share of the spoils.

How to Watch Orlando Pirates vs Moroka Swallows 

The game starts at 19:30 and will be televised live on SuperSport PSL. Live updates will be provided across Orlando Pirates’ social media platforms, including the Club’s official mobile app.

The Blue Diamonds are the second women’s team to emerge as Pirates Cup champions, and did so in dramatic fashion after forcing the game into penalties following a late equaliser from Julia Goncalves who converted from the spot to cancel out a stunning left-footed strike netted by Munashe Mugwara early in the second half.

Goalkeeper Casey Gordon was the hero in the shootout, keeping out two penalties to help her side to a 4-3 win which etched their name in history alongside the inaugural winners of the women’s competition, Tuks Ladies.

The men’s final on the other hand was decided in regulation time with UJ rallying back to overcome a first half deficit en route to securing the title. This is after Amahle took the lead through Lekhetho Morena before clinging on to preserve their lead as the two sides went to the break.

The Orange Army pressed for an equaliser and found it through Puleng Bapela midway through the second half, with the player later completing his brace moments from the final whistle to place his side within touching distance of the title. They were eventually confirmed as champions when the ref soon sounded the whistle, sparking wild celebrations.

Meanwhile, TS Galaxy Queens took third place in the women’s competition after beating Wits University in a goal-fest which finished with a 6-3 spectacle, while Emalahleni United finished third in the men’s category after overcoming Midlands Academy in their playoff.

Just 20 of the 64 teams that participated in what has been another electrifying edition of the tournament remain as the men’s competition enters the Round of 16, while the four women’s teams are set to battle it out in the semifinals. 

This is after the last six knockout spots in the men’s category were determined on the penultimate day, with Orbit College, East Rand Excellence Soccer Academy (ERESA), Midlands Academy, and Emalahleni United all securing outright qualification. Meadowlands Academy and River Park completed the Last 16 as they went through as the best-placed runners-up across the 16 groups.

TS Galaxy, Wits University, Mamelodi Sundowns, and JVW are the four teams remaining in the women’s category, and all were entered into the semifinal draw which served up some interesting fixtures.

Galaxy and JWV are set to battle it out in the first semi, while Wits take on Sundowns in the parallel fixture. Both matches kick off at 14:00 with the final scheduled to get underway at 16:00.

The men’s fixtures meanwhile kick off early at 8:00 and include a match-up between the free-scoring Amahle and River Park alongside what promises to be a mouth-watering clash between Sekhukhune United and ERESA, both winners of their respective groups. 

Last year’s runners-up Orbit College will also be on show early on as they take on Meadowlands Academy, while TS Galaxy’s encounter with Wits is among the eye-catching Round of 16 fixtures, along with SuperSport United’s battle against University of Johannesburg.

All 16 teams will be looking to advance to the quarterfinals which kick off at 11:50, with the semis and the highly-anticipated final scheduled to get underway at 14:00 and 16:00, respectively.

The full list of fixtures is below:

Women’s Semifinals

●    TS Galaxy vs JVW
●    Wits University vs Mamelodi Sundowns 

Men’s Round of 16 

●    Teltonika Amahle vs River Park FC
●    Orbit College vs Meadowlands Academy
●    ERESA vs Sekhukhune United 
●    University of Pretoria vs Midlands Academy
●    The Citizens vs Turfloop City 
●    SuperSport United vs University of Johannesburg 
●    TS Galaxy vs Wits FC 
●    Emalahleni United vs Mswenko Family