Bafana Bafana created daylight between themselves and the chasing pack in Group C, where they went seven points clear of second-placed Benin ahead of their crucial clash against Nigeria at the same venue on Tuesday. 

It was thanks in part to the Bucs contingent in the match-day squad named by coach Hugo Broos, who included four players wearing the famous black and white in the starting lineup, while a further three waited on the bench.

The star of the show in the fixture proved to be Appollis, who turned in a stellar performance in his first international since signing for the Soweto Giants in the off-season. He carried his club form into the encounter and had a hand in the opener netted by ex-Buccaneer Mohau Nkota in the 15th minute.  

The 24-year-old had opportunities to get his own name on the scoresheet in the first half, but had to wait until the break to do so. Lesotho’s resistance was only broken after the hour mark by another former Pirates player in Burnley’s Lyle Foster, who then provided the assist for Appollis as he put the result beyond doubt with a calm finish past Orbit College goalkeeper Sekhoane Moerane. 

Included alongside Appollis in the starting eleven were defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who was instrumental in ensuring a clean sheet with an assured showing at the back. The two players lasted the full 90 minutes alongside Thalente Mbatha, while Sipho Mbule at his dazzling best on his return to the national setup as he displayed his trademark flair in his 73 minutes on the field. 

There was a milestone for another Bucs new signing in Kamogelo Sebelebele, who made his official debut for South Africa when he replaced Nkota in the 73rd minute. Goalkeeper Sipho Chaine and midfielder Relebohile Mofokeng were among the unused subs on the bench and could feature when Bafana host Nigeria on Tuesday. 

Meanwhile, Deon Hotto’s Namibia endured a disappointing result in their bid to secure World Cup qualification for the first time in history. The veteran winger lasted the whole match as the Brave Warriors went down 2-1 to Malawi in their match played in Francistown earlier in the day. The result dealt a blow to their chances as they remain second in a tight Group H with three more games left to play. They also remain at the same venue for their next match, which takes place on Tuesday against third-placed Liberia, who are only two points behind them

Preparations for the upcoming season continued in the Spanish coast with the Buccaneers looking to bounce back after defeat against Bolton Wanderers earlier in the week. They met a side already with two victories in their off-season.

It looked as if the Soweto Giants were set up for an uphill climb as The Light Brigade – as Pafos are popularly known – stamped their mark on proceedings with just six minutes played. They found an opener following a counter resulting from a Bucs free kick which failed to threaten their defence.

The European outfit maintained pressure on the Buccaneers for much of the early stages of the first half with goalkeeper Sipho Chaine called up to intervene on several occasions. The shot-stopper proved equal to the task as he kept his side’s deficit to a minimum.

Pirates meanwhile made a few forays into opposition territory without giving the defending side a few reasons to sweat. It took a bit of magic from winger Oswin Appollis to draw them level, with the new signing finding Relebohile Mofokeng with a superb pass and the 20-year-old made no mistake in calmly slotting home to make it 1-1 in the 24th minute.

The goal shifted the momentum with the Buccaneers finding a few opportunities in the latter half of the opening period. Midfielder Sipho Mbule drew a save from the keeper with a long-range effort while Kabelo Dlamini went just wide with his attempt from a similar distance.

Replacement goalkeeper Siyabonga Dladla was called upon on a couple of occasions early in the second half, and was a cool presence between the posts. His side was just as active at the other end with Boitumelo Radiopane looking lively inside the box.

The shot-stopper was tested late on via a free kick delivered into the box. It bounced awkwardly, but he was positioned well enough to make a crucial block as a number of white shirts descended towards the Pirates goal before a clearance was made.

The Pafos defence continued to frustrate Pirates as time ran out, with the likes of Patrick Maswanganyi and Tshepang Moremi falling just short in their attempts to find the winner. The decisive goal remained elusive in what was another vital exercise for the Soweto Giants, who have another busy week ahead of them in Malaga.

They next cross paths with Spanish second tier outfit Las Palmas on Thursday evening with the game kicking off at 17:00 (SAST).

Pirates XI: Chaine (Dladla 46’), Sibisi (Seema 46’), Mbokazi, Van Rooyen (Mashiolane 62’), Hotto (Ndaba 62’), Mbatha (Selepe 62’), Mbule (Dansin 46’), Dlamini (Kimvuidi 62’), Appollis (Moremi 62’), Mofokeng (Maswanganyi 62’), Radiopane (Mbuthuma 62’).

A solitary strike from Lumka Qhekeka proved decisive in handing Sundowns Ladies a maiden triumph in the competition as they defeated 2023 runners-up University of Johannesburg Ladies 1-0 in a hotly contested final. A similar scoreline also decided the destination of the men’s trophy, with an early goal from Bongani Mpini handing Lions victory over tournament hosts Orlando Pirates.

Both finals were fitting show-stoppers to a long weekend consisting of exciting football action, which kicked off with 64 hopefuls from around South Africa and beyond. Only two emerged with the grand prize from each category, with the Ladies from Tshwane following in the footsteps of inaugural champions Tuks Ladies and 2024 winners JVW.

Having secured their spot in the knockouts on the opening day, Banyana Ba Style returned on Monday for their semifinal clash against Wits Ladies. It ended 1-0 in favour of the team from Tshwane, setting up a clash against UJ Ladies who played to a goalless draw against the defending champions in their semifinal, which was decided through a shootout.

This meant a final between two sides who had fallen just short of glory in the competition’s previous editions, with the 2024 runners-up prevailing in the end to be named champions while also claiming the grand prize of R50 000.

Third place went to Wits Ladies after they defeated JVW on penalties in their playoff. It was, however, not all disappointment for the former champs as they had reason to celebrate their star forward, Bonolo Mokoma walked off with the top individual awards, winning the women’s Golden Boot for her seven goals while also being named the tournament’s MVP.

Meanwhile, the semifinals also proved to be the end of the road for last year’s  men’s champions after the Buccaneers eliminated UJ in a close encounter decided on penalties after neither side could find the breakthrough in regulation time. It was a similar story in the parallel fixture between Leruma Lions and Wits, with the team from the North West prevailing in the shootout to set up their final against the Soweto Giants.

Mpini’s strike from close range handed Lions an early lead which they clung onto to thwart the tournament hosts’ attempts at claiming their first Pirates Cup title since 2018.

Midfielder Lucky Malatsi took home the MVP accolade for inspiring his side to victory with eye-catching displays at the centre of the pitch, while Emalahleni United’s Alfred Kwanele was the men’s Golden Boot winner with five goals.

Wits meanwhile emulated their ladies team in finishing third in the tournament, beating UJ to a podium finish.

Goodbyes are never easy. They tug at the heart, reminding us of the moments we wish could last forever. But in football, as in life, they are sometimes necessary.

When Coach José arrived in 2022, he didn’t just take charge of a team, he mended broken spirits, reignited lost hope.

Coming out of the 2021/22 season the Buccaneers had finished 6^th in the league with only 10 wins from the 30 matches; a first-round exit in the MTN8 to Swallows as well as a defeat to Marumo Gallants in the Round of 16 of the Nedbank Cup.

Football has a propensity to judge people too quickly and naturally an unknown José would be scrutinised before even setting foot on South African soil. However, the 47-year-old has since made believers out of doubters.

He has given the Pirates supporters more than just victories; he gave them a reason to dream again. And now, as the end of the season draws near, so does the reality that this incredible chapter is coming to a close.

But the story isn’t over yet. There are still games to be played, memories to make, and moments to cherish.

Speaking to Orlandopiratesfc.com, Riveiro said: “My priority right now is on our upcoming match against Polokwane City. This is a tough match. A match that needs our undivided attention and focus.

“The time will come for me to express myself on the decision I have made but now isn’t that time because we have a job to do. The season is far from over and we have a lot of work to do between now and the end of May.

“Obviously, in an ideal world, one would have wanted to hold on making any statements until the end of the season but it’s not possible. The club needs to plan for its future and it’s only fair that they are given time to do so.”

After Tuesday’s gruelling clash against MC Alger in the first leg of the CAF Champions League quarterfinals in Algiers, the Buccaneers – who arrive back in SA this morning, will travel to Limpopo to prepare for their Betway Premiership clash against Rise and Shine which will be played at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium this Saturday.

The victory placed them on the driving seat ahead of next week’s deciding leg at Orlando Stadium. It also saw them extend their unbeaten run in the competition to 11 matches, while inflicting a rare defeat on their in-form hosts.

Back in Algiers following their success in the Algerian capital in the group phase, the Soweto Giants were quickly placed on the backfoot this time around. The hosts asserted their dominance from the onset, finding a shot at goal seconds after the first whistle. That effort came through Guinean forward Mohamed Bangoura, who headed wide with his effort.

Bucs keeper Sipho Chaine was called upon a few times during the opening exchanges, making some desperate interventions as the visitors continued to be pinned back. He was crucial in keeping the match scoreless throughout the first half, producing excellent saves to keep out shots from Bangoura and Zakaria Naidji.

Pirates meanwhile were forced to feed off scraps as far as attacking opportunities were concerned. Their first real chance was a rather opportunistic one from Relebohile Mofokeng, who looked to catch goalkeeper Abdelatif Ramdane off guard, but could only direct his effort wide of the target.

The hosts continued to demand plenty from the visitors’ defence as the break approached. The best of their chances came through Naidji on the stroke of halftime when he did well to work himself into space out on the left before drawing another superb save from Chaine.

There was a bit more cohesion to the Buccaneers’ game at the start of the second half, while The Doyen also looked to continue in their aggressive approach. Naidji was again in the thick of things as he was presented with a chance through a misplaced pass in a dangerous area, only to rush his attempt at goal.

The introduction of Mohau Nkota on the hour mark proved to be the spark needed by Jose Riveiro’s side, as the youngster made an immediate impact shortly after coming on. He ran into an excellent ball from the middle, brushing off the attention from the defence before calmly slotting in past Ramdane to provide a crucial away goal in the 65th minute, his third in his second appearance in Algiers.

The North Africans appeared to have hit back with a goal of their own just seconds later, but it would not stand as captain Ayoub Abdellaoui was adjudged to have interfered with Chaine just before finding the net.

They remained unrelenting in their pursuit for the equaliser, with the Bucs shot-stopper by far the busier of the two men between the sticks. He produced another save to foil an attack late in the contest before MC Alger forward Soufiane Bayazid misfired with a header from close range with just two minutes of regulation time remaining.

An additional eight minutes meant that the visitors were far from the promised land, with plenty still demanded of them defensively. They stood up well to the challenge, with the likes of Nkosinathi Sibisi, Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Tapelo Xoki putting their bodies on the line.

It was all that was required as they clung on to their slim advantage to take a one-goal lead into the decisive second leg on home turf.

Pirates XI: Chaine, Xoki, Sibisi, Van Rooyen (Shandu 77’), Mbokazi, Makhaula, Mbatha (Ndlondlo 88’), Dlamini (Nkota 60’), Mofokeng (Mosele 77’), Hotto, Makgopa (Mabasa 88’).

For a crucial outing away from home, the Buccaneers go head-to-head with their second opposition from the Land of the Martyrs in the ongoing competition. The backdrop for this particular fixture will also be a familiar one for them following their last voyage into The Bay of Algiers, which was as recent as November last year when they kicked off their Group C campaign against consistent deep-stage contenders in the tournament CR Belouizdad.

A brace from Mohau Nkota secured a much-needed three points to get the Soweto Giants to a flying start in the group stages, setting the tone for what would turn out to be an unbeaten campaign for a spot in the knockouts. It was not their first visit to the site of Algeria’s maiden Africa Cup of Nations title as they had previously stepped onto the same ground, albeit in a different interclub competition.

During the group stage of the 2021/22 CAF Champions League, Pirates came up against another Algerian side in JS Saoura. They triumphed at home and were again victorious in the away leg, netting twice in the second half courtesy of Ntsikelelo Nyauza and Kabelo Dlamini. It was a victory that proved crucial as they finished top of Group B ahead of a long run in the knockouts where they eventually finished as runners-up.

Outside Stade du 5 Juillet 1962, Pirates have had several other run-ins with teams from the North African nation and have generally fared well.

Following their historic 1995 Champions League triumph, the Buccaneers locked horns with two-time African champs JS Kabylie – who had just been crowned Cup Winners’ Cup (now Confederation Cup) champions – in the 1996 CAF Super Cup. Bruce Ramokgadi’s right-footed strike from close range was the difference on the day as the Soweto Giants walked off with a 1-0 victory to lift the title. However, that particular clash took place at FNB Stadium, one of a few other venues that have played host to Pirates’ fixtures against Algerian opposition.

Their only defeat in Algeria’s capital came in the 1997 CAF Champions League when they traveled to the Stade Omar Hammadi to face USM Alger in the group stage. The hosts secured all three points with a 2-1 in a tightly contested affair with Dumisa Ngobe providing Pirates’ sole strike. That result ultimately played a part in Pirates’ inability to progress beyond the group phase, marking a disappointing end to their continental campaign that year.

Fast forward to the 2020/21 CAF Confederation Cup, Pirates once again encountered Algerian opposition in the form of ES Sétif. Due to COVID-19-related travel restrictions, the match was played at a neutral venue in Accra, Ghana. The Buccaneers put up a resilient performance, earning a 0-0 draw in what would turn out to be a crucial result in their bid to reach the knockout rounds.

Having more than held their own against Algerian sides over the years, the focus is now on a high-stakes return to Stade du 5 Juillet 1962. Another positive result at the venue will put them in a strong position ahead of the deciding leg at Orlando Stadium. It will require a special effort against an in-form MC Alger outfit, but the Buccaneers have proven capable through recent successes as the famous venue. Kick-off is at 21:00 (SAST).

Goals came courtesy of our very own Relebohile Mofokeng who netted the opener in the 60th minute of the match and then from Jayden Adams in the 64th minute.

While Mofokeng put in attacking masterclass for the entire match, defender Nkosinathi Sibisi – who also completed the whole match, produced a no-nonsense display alongside Siyabonga Ngezana, Khuliso Mudau, Fawaaz Basadien and keeper (and captain) Ronwen Willams.

Midfielder, Thalente Mbatha was handed minutes towards the end of the match.

With this victory, Bafana Bafana move to number one of Group C on 10 points; two points more than Benin who will be South Africa’s next opponents on March 25.

Hotto and Namibia earn vital win

Meanwhile, Deon Hotto and his countrymen of Namibia continue to their impressive run on the continent.

After surprising many in the 2024 Meanwhile, Hotto and Namibia’s Brave Warriors are proving that their remarkable run at the 2024 AFCON was no fluke. After stunning African football by reaching the knockout stages and defeating heavyweights like Tunisia along the way, Namibia are carrying that momentum into their FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.

Namibia are currently second in their group following a 1-0 win over Malawi last night. They now trail log leaders Tunisia by just two points, with five games to play.

Hotto was handed a starting berth and ended up playing for 76th minutes.

Namibia play Equatorial Guniea next (on March 24).

It’s another massive fixture hosted by the Buccaneers at the iconic FIFA World Cup venue as they headline the weekend’s league action with another high-stakes assignment. They lock horns with the defending league champions, who present a key hurdle in their attempts to keep alive their bid for what has been one of their most elusive pieces of domestic silverware.

Form Guide

In what is the Buccaneers’ first home league fixture in almost a month, their impressive record in Soweto is set to be placed under its sternest test yet. They take on a side that is not only top of the charts as far as the overall standings are concerned, but one that also leads the charge among the best performers on the road this season with 25 points earned in 11 away matches.

However, Sundowns’ recent travels have not produced the most optimal returns. Having dropped a total of eight points throughout the season, half of those have occurred in their last five away fixtures. They suffered a shock defeat to TS Galaxy in Mbombela while a recent trip to Hammarsdale could only yield a single point against Lamontville Golden Arrows.

The slip-ups have been few and far between nonetheless, as they make the short journey to Soweto as the league form team over the past month by some distance. They are coming off a 2-0 home victory over AmaZulu in midweek, a result that helped increase the gap between themselves and their next opponents to a daunting 18 points.

Pirates meanwhile failed to make a significant dent in the deficit earlier in the week when they played to a goalless draw against a 10-man Stellenbosch in Athlone. It was the latest in a recent string of indifferent results, where they have collected less than half of the points on offer in their last five league outings.

Their struggles have mainly been on the road while in the games they have hosted, they have been near-unbeatable with only a single stain to their record in the form of a defeat to the same team faltered against on Tuesday. That was back in December, and in the months since then, normal service has somewhat resumed.

They defeated the likes of Kaizer Chiefs and Cape Town City in Soweto to make it eight wins in nine home league games this season, while also collecting a convincing cup victory in a tricky Nedbank Cup assignment at Orlando Stadium. Now returning to the scene of last month’s Soweto Derby victory, they search for another big scalp in a game that could alter the shape of the rest of the league campaign.

Team News

Suspensions have been a feature for both camps in the weeks leading up to this crucial encounter, but there will be no such worries on Sunday. This means that all players declared as match fit at either side are available for selection.

Defender Olisa Ndah and midfielder Miguel Timm are two players that could find themselves back on the pitch in the coming weeks. Yanga Madiba and Azola Tshobeni have meanwhile rejoined the squad after travelling to Egypt as part of South Africa’s squad participating in African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers.

Neo Maema and Terrence Mashego are also back in the Sundowns camp after their involvement in the same qualifiers. Meanwhile, new signing Lebo Mothiba will be eyeing a debut in the near future having recently made the move to the Brazilians as a free agent.

Key Players

Nkosinathi Sibisi (Orlando Pirates): The defender has hit a solid run of form, raking up a few Man of the Match performances in the process. Key in defence and one of the leaders in the squad, Sibisi’s influence will be key against an attack that is not short of firepower.

Lucas Ribeiro (Mamelodi Sundowns): One of the standouts in the league throughout the season, Ribeiro will undoubtedly be one to watch on Sunday. The Brazilian currently leads the race for the Golden Boot and will be keen to replicate his heroics from the reverse fixture.

Head-to-Head

Pirates are presented with another opportunity to confront what has been a disappointing league record against Sundowns in recent seasons. They are without a win in a little over five years while their most recent encounter with their Tshwane counterparts yielded yet another defeat.

The 4-1 scoreline in that particular fixture is one the hosts will hope was nothing more than an outlier as fixtures played by the two sides over the past year have been tight affairs. Sundowns prevailed in two during this period – both at Orlando Stadium – while the Soweto Giants managed to come away with a point at Loftus Versfeld last season, despite finishing the game with 10 men.

It has only been in cup games where the Buccaneers have had the upper hand against one of their fiercest rivals, triumphing in all three of their most recent encounters outside the Premiership – including two cup finals. They will be better served approaching Sunday’s clash with a mentality needed for such do-or-die affairs, with minimal slip-ups required throughout the remainder of their league campaign.

TV Coverage and Ticket Info

The game kicks off at 15:30 and will be broadcast live on SuperSport PSL and Variety 4. Orlando Pirates will provide live updates across the Club’s social media platforms as well as the Club’s official mobile app.

Tickets to attend the game are available online on pirates.opentickets.co.za, while physical tickets can be purchased at over 1,700 outlets nationwide, including Shoprite, USave, and Checkers.

Two games stand between the Buccaneers and a third straight Nedbank Cup title, an unprecedented feat in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) era. They extended their unbeaten run in the competition by edging SuperSport United on penalties in their quarter-final assignment at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday.

The game was decided on penalties after failing to produce a winner following 120 minutes of action where four goals were shared evenly. Next on the Soweto Giants’ sights is the Free State-based outfit, who endured a similar path of the last four.

This is after going all the way against ABC Motsepe Championship log- leaders Durban City on Sunday, pulling through with a convincing win in the shootout. The semifinal draw has now set up a rather unpredictable match-up, according to the two most recent results between the two sides.

They met twice in the league this season with the Buccaneers blowing Bahlabane ba Ntwa out the park with an 8-1 win at Orlando Stadium back in December. Gallants recently exacted revenge for that result with a 2-0 victory in their home leg.

There was also not much to separate the two sides in their only past encounter in the Nedbank Cup, which took place at Peter Mokaba Stadium in the Round of 16 stage of the 2022 edition. Bucs midfielder Phillip Ndlondlo was on target for his former side before his goal was cancelled out by a Bandile Shandu strike in the second half. The lottery of penalties was required to settle the contest, and it was the then-Limpopo outfit that claimed victory in the end on their way to their maiden cup final appearance.

Pirates have now been presented with an opportunity to avenge that result as they contest their first home Nedbank Cup semifinal since triumphing at a similar stage over Mpumalanga Black Aces in 2011. They have since added three more titles to their tally for a total of 10 – the second most in the competition’s history – and are chasing a hat-trick of titles after wins in 2023 and 2024.

Dates, kick-off times and match venues for the semifinals will be confirmed by the PSL in due course.

In a tense tussle between two of the competition’s most successful teams, the Buccaneers not only had to survive a 120-minute wrestling match, but also the lottery of a penalty shootout. They scraped through eventually, ensuring their third consecutive appearance in the last four with their title defence surviving yet another day.

While the result in the end was the desired outcome for the visitors, things did not really kick off as intended. They were forced to contend with a shot towards their goal just seconds from kick-off. It came off the boot of Gamphani Lungu, who brought out the best of Sipho Chaine, with the Bucs keeper pulling off an excellent reflex save.

The subsequent period proved to be a frustrating toil for Pirates, who had the lion’s share as far as possession was concerned without making any real inroads inside the attacking third. Relebohile Mofokeng and Mohau Nkota both had half-chances with neither capitalising while United winger Enoch Quaicoe misfired with his chance at the other end.

It was left for another Bucs academy product to deliver a game-changing blow, which came a minute before the half-hour mark. Mbekezile Mbokazi was the player with the decisive touch as he found himself inside the box following a set piece before finding the top corner with a powerful left-footed shot.

Evidence Makgopa and Deon Hotto both misfired in their attempts to double the lead, while Mofokeng managed to send his shot on target with United goalkeeper Ricardo Goss keeping it out with a fine save to his left. An error at the opposite side of the pitch allowed the home side in for an equaliser, and former Bucs forward Terrence Dzvukamanja needed no second invitation as he pounced to make it 1-1 moments before the break.

That appeared to be the goal to send the two sides into the break with nothing to separate them, but only momentarily. United only enjoyed level parity for a couple of minutes as Makgopa restored the lead from close range in injury time following a couple of touches from Nkota and Hotto inside the United penalty area.

The early part of the second half featured a determined defensive effort from the visitors, who had to contend with Matsatsansa’s search for another equaliser. Chaine proved key in staving off the challenge posed by the home side, assisted by a bit of wastefulness from their attackers.

Pirates only remained in the lead until the dying moments when Gape Moralo was left untracked as he surged into the penalty area. That turned out to be a costly error from the Buccaneers with the United midfielder finding the net to send the game into extra time.

With it being the second marathon cup encounter between the two Gauteng rivals at a similar stage within the same season, Pirates would have fancied their chances as they had pulled through during the same period of the previous knockout clash. It was however not to be, with Deon Hotto and Phillip Ndlondlo both unable to provide a potential winner when presented with chances to push the Soweto Giants ahead.

The bombardment of the United goal continued well into the final stages of the time allocated to open play. The visitors could not edge ahead in the dying moments, and the referee’s whistle eventually signalled a decider through penalties.

United were first to approach the spot and Lebohang Maboe and Bradley Grobler were both on target with Hotto and Tapelo Xoki both matching their efforts. Ex-Bucs midfielder Vincent Pule was the first to misfire as Chaine guessed correctly to save his shot which was followed by an on-target attempt from Makgopa, who put Pirates ahead for the first time in the shootout.

Nyikko Mobbie placed his side back level with their fourth spot kick and just as the visitors could see the finish line, Goss saved the corresponding kick from the boot of Ndlondlo. Successful spot kicks from Oratilwe Moloisane and Patrick Maswanganyi ensured that the drama of the encounter would be extended to sudden death.

Another save from Chaine – who kept out a shot from Christian Saile – shifted the advantage back into the Buccaneers’ favour. This set up a heroic moment for Goodman Mosele, who made no mistake in firing past Goss to ensure that Pirates’ lengthy reign in the competition extended beyond the last eight for the third season running.

Pirates XI: Chaine, Xoki, Mbokazi (Maela 85’), Ndlozi (Van Rooyen 69’), Mako, Makhaula (Ndlondlo 90’), Mbatha (Mosele 69’), Mofokeng (Shandu 85’), Nkota (Nkota 69’), Hotto, Makgopa.

It’s a do-or-die clash between two sides that have achieved the rare feat of going back-to-back in terms of success in the competition. While the home side attempt to scale a significant hurdle in their bid to reclaim a crown they last held in 2017, their opponents go into the crucial encounter looking to emulate the legendary Bucs side of the 1970s in securing a hat-trick of titles.

Form Guide

Pirates cantered past the two opening rounds of this year’s  competition, netting six goals while conceding just twice across the two matches. They beat Premiership rivals Richards Bay 3-1 away from home before producing the same scoreline in their Round of 16 clash against Championship outfit Baroka. Those victories added to their impressive streak in the prestigious tournament, which they have dominated in recent years.

Overall form however has been a little on the indifferent side for Jose Riveiro’s troops in recent weeks. They have twice been on the losing side in the past month, going down to Mamelodi Sundowns and Marumo Gallants with both matches played away from home. There have been four victories amid the disappointments including Wednesday’s 1-0 triumph against Chippa United – their second away win during this period.

Their cup exploits have now seen their return to the scene of league wins against Magesi and Sekhukhune United earlier this season. It is where they will be locking horns with a Matsatsansa outfit emerging from a goalless draw at home to AmaZulu in midweek, just days after falling to a 1-0 defeat away to Magesi at a venue not too far from the one that will be serving as their home base for the cup quarter-final.

The Tshwane outfit’s route to the last eight has not been too dissimilar from that of their next opponents as it consisted of fixtures against opposition from each of the two top tiers in South African football. United brushed off the challenge of Magesi in their opener – winning 2-0 on the road – before a rather tight home encounter against Championship outfit Cape Town Spurs, which was decided in the penultimate minute of extra time through a Lebohang Maboe strike that made it 2-1. The latter result is just one of only two positive outcomes in the span of a month for Gavin Hunt’s men, with the other one being a convincing 4-1 win against a 10-man Kaizer Chiefs.

Having tasted success against one of the Soweto Giants, they will be encouraged to put on a performance that could mark their return to the semifinals after failing to do so since they last went all the way to clinch the title.

Team News

Goalkeeper Sipho Chaine is back in contention for a spot in the Buccaneers’ match day squad after not making the midweek trip to the Eastern Cape due to suspension. There will however be a forced reshuffling of the defensive line, with Nkosinathi Sibisi ruled out after picking up a one-match ban through an accumulation of yellow cards on Wednesday.

Pirates have also had to contend with a few injuries in recent times, with influential midfielder Patrick Maswangany among those not likely to feature while defender Olisa Ndah and striker Zakhele Lepasa have made steady progress since being sidelined.

Meanwhile Hunt remains a most prominent absentee for the home side. The veteran tactician was sent off during the league loss to Magesi and will be serving the second game in his two-match suspension.

Key Players

Relebohile Mofokeng (Orlando Pirates): The 20-year-old has stepped up to the plate, embracing the added responsibilities that come with his ever-evolving role in the team. Fresh off adding another assist to his tally, Mofokeng is one of many potent attacking threats in the Bucs setup and boasts an impressive 20 goal contributions in just 33 games across competitions.

Samir Nurkovic (SuperSport United): One of the new faces in the blue of Matsatsansa, the Serb has not hesitated to make an impact in his new surroundings. The 32-year-old is adept at finishing with either foot while posing a significant threat aerially and has already had a hand in four goals in his eight appearances for United.

Head-to-Head

While the two sides have been neck-and-neck in the league over the years, it’s Matsatsansa who have had the upper hand in their most recent Nedbank Cup encounters. They prevailed over the Buccaneers in back-to-back finals, clinching the title in 2016 and 2017.

Nevertheless, winning momentum in the ongoing season is currently with the Soweto Giants, who have registered wins over their Tshwane counterparts in both cup and league football. They claimed a 3-1 win in the MTN8 quarter-final back in August, and were again victorious by a similar margin when they netted two unanswered goals to claim all three points in a Premiership encounter that took place two months later.

Both those wins however occurred at Orlando Stadium, where they have won regularly against United. Their record against them on the road has been a direct contrast to their home success, and they now head into Saturday’s do-or-die victory still in search of their first away win since November 2024.

TV Coverage and Ticket Info

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

Tickets to attend the match are available for purchase online at TicketPro and selected outlets nationwide.

In a highly physical encounter, the Buccaneers were forced to dig deep for glory as they sought to bounce back following the disappointment from the past weekend. They emerged with their 13th win in the Premiership this season, consolidating their spot in second place with a fair amount of games still to be played.

Things kicked off at a frantic pace with the two sides trading shots at goal in the first five minutes. Bucs defender Siyabonga Ndlozi was first to have a go, latching on to a loose ball before knocking it wide. His attempt was followed by a similar result at the other end when Giovanni Philander brushed the side netting with his effort from a direct free kick.

Shots on target eluded the visitors for much of the first quarter as Relebohile Mofokeng and Kabelo Dlamini both failed to find their bearings. It was a similar scenario for the hosts with Philander causing problems for the defence without doing much to trouble goalkeeper Melusi Buthelezi.

Pirates striker Tshegofatso Mabasa did manage to draw Stanley Nwabali into a save in the 22nd minute, albeit with a tame effort that was easily kept out. He was again played in by Mofokeng just after the half-hour mark, only succeeding in firing straight at the Nigerian international.

The deadlock lasted until late in the first half with a Bucs corner in injury time eventually producing the opener. The set piece was whipped in towards the near post by Mofokeng, with defender Nkosinathi Sibisi doing well to lose his marker before heading in past Nwabali to put his side in the lead at a crucial time.

After emerging from the break, the Buccaneers looked to swiftly double their advantage early in the second period. They advanced into Chilli Boys’ territory with the resultant opportunity spurned by Nkota who had done all the hard work on the right flank before skying his effort at goal. Dlamini followed suit in the 57th minute, linking up with Mabasa before failing to breach the shot-stopper’s defences.

Pirates maintained their control for much of the second half, and looked to have extended their lead late on when substitute midfielder Goodman Mosele found the back of the net, only for his goal to be disallowed after the ball was adjudged to have rolled into touch during the build-up. That did not deter the visitors, who continued to push forward while controlling possession.

Their impressive game management was to see them through in the end as they held on to clinch a vital win, also completing a league double over Chippa in the process.

Pirates XI: Buthelezi, Sibisi, Mbokazi, Ndlozi, Hotto, Makhaula, Mbatha (Mosele 62’), Dlamini (Mako 62’), Nkota (Shandu 88’), Mabasa (Makgopa 82’).

Chaine will miss the opportunity to face his former employers because of a one match suspension.  The former Chilli Boy collected his fourth booking in Pirates’ loss to Gallants over the weekend.

Meanwhile, the Bucs medical team has confirmed with Orlandopiratesfc.com that Tito – who missed out on the clash against Gallants, continues to undergo rehabilitation from an injury he suffered in Bucs’ 2-1 win against Cape Town City last week.

“Tito sustained a grade one strain in our match against Cape Town City. We will continue to monitor his situation and provide the technical team daily updates on his progress,” reads the report.

The medical department has also provided updates on the rest of the squad players:

Miguel Timm (Ankle)

Currently undergoing on-field rehabilitation work while also attending physiotherapy sessions. He is expected to return to full training in 7-14 days.

Thabiso Monyane (Hamstring)

Has started field-based rehabilitation with emphasis on agility, aerobic endurance and accelerations and decelerations. To start high-speed running next week.

Zakhele Lepasa (Ankle)

Has started field-based training with the strength and conditioning team.

Olisa Ndah (Shin)

Has completed his rehabilitation and has returned to full training. Currently on working on his match fitness.

Thabiso Lebitso (Ankle)

Continues to undergo treatment post-surgery. Attending Physiotherapy sessions for acute management.

Thabiso Sesane (Achillies)

Like Lebitso, Sesane also underwent a successful procedure and is currently undergoing treatment while attending Physiotherapy sessions for acute management

The hosts’ relentless fight earned them valuable three points halfway through their campaign while piling misery on their opponents, who could not climb from the bottom half of the table. The result kept the Soweto Giants within touching distance of the table-topping Mamelodi Sundowns.

It was a second outing at Orlando Stadium in as many weeks for the Buccaneers, but their first in the league since December. They initailly struggled to entertain the large crowd that had shown up, despite camping in the opposition half for much of the opening exchanges.

City goalkeeper Darren Keet had a say early on as he comfortably dealt with shots from Thalente Mbatha and Relebohile Mofokeng. Much of the first quarter followed a similar theme as Pirates fed off scraps as far as clear-cut opportunities were concerned.

They were caught against the run of play in the 21st minute when City made the most of a rare chance at goal. The final touch came off Haashim Domingo, who got on the end of a cross from Prins Tjiueza after the Namibian had found a way behind the Pirates defence on the left.

The Buccaneers’ early attempts at finding an equaliser proved futile, as the visitors kept their defensive shape. At the other end, Sipho Chaine was called into action just after the half-hour mark when he was forced low to his right to keep out a shot from Tjiueza.

Shots kept flying towards the Citizen’s goal for the rest of the first period, with Mofokeng and Patrick Maswanganyi both coming close without troubling the scorers. The halftime whistle sounded with the home side still trailing as the Capetonians went within 45 minutes of a league double.

However, there was more purpose to the Soweto Giants’ approach in the second period as Deano van Rooyen and Thalente Mbatha continued the bombardment of Keet’s goal with efforts from a fair way out. Fresh legs were introduced soon after the hour mark with Mohau Nkota taking to the field alongside Goodman Mosele, who was making his first appearance of the season following an injury lay-off.

It was the 20-year-old winger who made an immediate impact, popping up on the left before beating his marker to deliver a cutback towards Tshegofatso Mabasa. The striker only needed a single touch to impact the scoresheet, guiding his shot past the City shot-stopper to draw level in the 67th minute.

Phillip Ndlondlo could have placed his name in the scorecard soon after coming on when he unleashed a powerful shot which was blocked by Keet. His side remained unrelenting in their pursuit of the winner, sending wave after wave of attack deep into City territory.

Something was to give, and it did with only three minutes of regulation time remaining. It was Mosele who got the decisive touch this time around as he sent the ball over the goal line from close range in the second time of asking after a scramble inside the visitors’ box.

City immediately went in search of the equaliser, with Tjiueza spurning a chance at goal after finding a way past the defence. It turned out to be the final opportunity for the men from the Cape, with the Buccaneers digging deep to secure a crucial victory.

Pirates XI: Chaine, Xoki, Sibisi, Van Rooyen (Ndlozi 75’), Hotto, Mbatha (Makgopa 75’), Makhaula (Mosele 62’), Maswanganyi (Nkota 62’), Shandu (Ndlondlo 68’), Mofokeng, Mabasa.

What would have been the Buccaneers’ first game of the week was abandoned on Wednesday due to a waterlogged pitch in Hammarsdale and focus has now turned to their clash against the Citizens, who are back on the road after their own midweek home assignment.

Saturday’s fixture also marks the halfway point of the home side’s Premiership campaign as they look to strengthen their charge for the top prize.

Form Guide

With three games in hand, they remain in second place in the standings with the gap between themselves and log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns now at 12 points following the postponement of the match against Lamontville Golden Arrows. They’re home for the second week running following their Nedbank Cup Round of 16 win against Baroka, gearing up to take to the field in what is the first Premiership game at Orlando Stadium since their 8-1 routing of Marumo Gallants in December.

Pirates have had one more home game since that emphatic result, beating Kaizer Chiefs 1-0 in a dramatic Soweto Derby held at FNB Stadium. That win plus victories away to Magesi and Sekhukhune United have raised their points tally to nine in their five most recent outings – a figure that could have been greater if not for defeats away to City and Sundowns. They will nonetheless relish playing in a familiar backdrop, having collected 21 of their 33 league points in Soweto.

Standing between them and victory is a side looking to emerge from a difficult period after last experiencing victory in mid-January. That win from a little over a month ago is the only positive result in their last five games and is responsible for the bulk of the four points earned during this period, where they’ve also experienced cup disappointment in the form of an early cup exit.

As they head to Orlando, the Citizens are on a run of three straight defeats away from home. They remain the joint-worst performers on the road across the league, tied with Gallants at just four away points.

Currently occupying 10th place with the chance to re-enter the top eight should they prevail on Saturday, they will be eager to spoil the Soweto Giants’ league homecoming by becoming only the second team to defeat them in their own backyard this season.

Team News

The visitors will be without assistant coach Lebohang Manyama, who will be missing from their dugout due to a red-card suspension. They will also miss the services of former Bucs midfielder Fortune Makaringe as he nurses an ankle injury that has kept him out of action since October.

Pirates meanwhile have a midfield absentee of their own in the form of Kabelo Dlamini, who serves a one-match ban. That department has however been bolstered by the return of Thalente Mbatha along with Goodman Mosele, both fit after spells on the sidelines.

Key Players

Tshegofatso Mabasa (Orlando Pirates): The Bucs striker has had success against City in the past, and crosses paths with them again just a week after bagging his second hat-trick of the season. Mabasa’s anticipation and movement in and around the opposition box make him the perfect goal poacher while also threatening with his aerial prowess and the ability to strike from range.

Darwin Gonzalez (Cape Town City): With the uncanny ability to raise his game in big fixtures, Gonzalez was the difference in City’s last encounter with Pirates and will look to produce more of the same at Orlando Stadium. The 30-year-old is not only a factor with his creativity in open play, but also poses a significant threat come set-piece time.

Head-to-Head

The two sides lock horns for the fourth time this season after contesting two legs of the MTN8 semifinals early in the campaign, along with January’s Premiership clash. The previous games have produced all three possible results, with Pirates finding success in the cup while City go into Saturday’s game looking to complete a league double.

The Citizen’s recent league win also means that things are even under the results column  in their rivalry with the Soweto Giants, with victories sitting at five apiece while the other eight matches could not produce a winner. The Buccaneers still lead the goal stakes, having found the net 22 times while letting in 18 goals.

The hosts however remain unbeaten at Orlando Stadium with four wins and as many stalemates in the eight games played. They also have a comfortable lead in terms of goals, claiming a healthy share of 12 out of the 18 scored in Soweto.

TV Coverage and Ticket Info

The match is set to kick off at 15:30, with live coverage available on SuperSport PSL. You can follow the action by keeping an eye on live updates shared across Orlando Pirates’ social media channels.

Tickets are available for sale online on TicketPro as well as selected outlets nationwide.

The knockout phase of Africa’s flagship club competition is scheduled to kick off in early April, with the eight remaining teams vying for the four semifinal spots. All four match-ups in the last eight were determined in the live draw held in Doha on Thursday, with all teams present discovering their route to continental glory.

First up for the Buccaneers in the next round is a return to the Land of the Martyrs, where they kicked off their group stage campaign with a win against their next opponents’ domestic rivals, CR Belouizdad. The first leg of the tie will be hosted in the North African nation a week before the deciding leg at Orlando Stadium. It will be a historic first meeting between the two sides, who both made history by becoming the first teams from their respective countries to claim the coveted piece of silverware.

Affectionately known as “The Doyen”, the Algerians are making their third appearance in the quarter-finals while competing in the illustrious competition for the ninth time. They will be looking to reach the heights of their debut appearance, where they went all the way to be crowned champions.

For the Buccaneers, this will be a return to the knockout stages having last featured in 2013 when they eventually fell on the final hurdle. Jose Riveiro’s troops will be looking to take another step towards clinching their second title, adding to their 1995 crown. To achieve that, they will have to tap into their pool stage form, following an impressive showing where they finished as one of two teams to navigate their entirety of the previous round still unbeaten. 

It’s unlikely to be a cakewalk however, as they face off against a side that boasted the best defensive record across all four groups while also maintaining consistency in their domestic league, where they currently hold top spot.

The highly-anticipated quarter-finals kick off on 1 April, with the decisive second-leg fixtures getting underway seven days later. CAF will announce the individual fixture dates and kick-off times in due course.

The Qatari capital will be hosting the live draw to determine the first ties of the knockout phase of the competition along with the possible matchups in the semifinals.

The 1995 champions have a keen interest in the proceedings as they remain in the hunt for the most prestigious prize in African interclub competition.

They dominated a tough Group C, finishing unbeaten with an impressive 14 points – the biggest tally in the group stage. As group winners, Pirates are one of four seeded teams heading into the draw and will face one of the second-placed teams in the other groups, as well as host the decisive second leg of their quarter-final tie. Group C runners-up Al Ahly is excluded from their list of prospective opponents for this stage of the competition. They also get to avoid Sudanese giants Al Hilal, Tunisia’s Esperance, as well as AS FAR from Morocco – all winners of their respective groups.

This means that the possible rivals in the last eight are narrowed down to the other three runners-up, and orlandopiratesfc.com takes a look at each of the teams that could soon be lining up against the Buccaneers.

MC Alger (Algeria)

Coached by legendary Tunisian defender Khaled Ben Yahia, the Algerian outfit are gunning for their second Champions League title, nearly 50 years since they were crowned champions in 1976. They finished second to Al Hilal in a tough Group A and were the best defensive side across the 16 teams that competed in the previous round with just two goals conceded in their six matches. Currently at the summit of Algerian Ligue 1, MC Alger are looking to progress past the last eight for the first time since their historic triumph.

Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa)

A team that will need no introduction to the Bucs faithful as their rivalry with the Soweto Giants stretches well over half a century. The one-time champions were second to AS FAR in Group B, separated by only a single point. A perennial feature in the knockouts since claiming the 2016 title, Sundowns have managed to secure a semifinal berth in each of the last two editions of the tournament.

Pyramids (Egypt)

The youngest club still remaining among the contenders, Pyramids made their mark in front of goal in the previous round of the ongoing competition where they finished with the joint highest goal tally – tied on 14 points with domestic rivals Al Ahly. Only goal difference prevented the team coached by ex-Croatian international Krunoslav Jurčić from claiming top spot in Group D, with Esperance clinching the honour. Yet to make a significant mark in this particular competition, the Egyptians know how to navigate the knockout rounds in continental football having finished as Confederation Cup runners-up in 2020.

The Champions League draw will get underway at 16:00 (SAST) and will be televised live on SuperSport PSL and SABC Sport.

Following a brief return to Orlando Stadium, the Buccaneers resume their travels with an important assignment away to Abafana Bes’thende. It’s a match whose result could offer a significant boost as they hit the halfway mark in their league campaign.

Form Guide

They head to KwaZulu-Natal having progressed in the Nedbank Cup courtesy of a 3-1 win at home against Baroka. The victory helped secure their spot in the quarter-finals for the third season running.

Their immediate attention has now shifted to their league ambitions after falling nine points behind log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns. This follows their loss to the Tshwane Giants at Loftus Versfeld, which threatened to widen the gap even further before Pirates were handed a lifeline by a slip-up from their rivals.

Currently in second place with two games in hand, the Buccaneers now have an opportunity to lessen the deficit. Their recent away form however suggests the desired result is far from a foregone conclusion, following two defeats in their last three league games on the road. Their only away victory in this sequence of fixtures came in a midweek trip to Sekhukhune United.

Against Arrows, they face a side desperate to turn their fortunes around after going winless in their last three fixtures, securing just a single point in the process. Their last victory in all competitions was away to Kaizer Chiefs, and the month since then has seen them pick up only two points to drop to 10th place in the standings.

Abafana Bes’thende’s current league position has been partly due to their results at home, where they remain in search of their first win since early December. They host Pirates having lost once and collected two points through stalemates since last emerging triumphant in their backyard where they have managed eight points in seven home matches since the start of the season.

Team News

Midfielder Kabelo Dlamini will be a key absentee in the centre of the park for the visitors. His 73rd minute booking in the recent Nedbank Cup tie rules him out of the fixture as it was his fourth yellow card of the season, thus making him ineligible for selection.

The Buccaneers’ hosts have no such suspension worries heading into the fixture. However, they could have a fresh injury concern in the form of attacking midfielder Angelo van Rooi, who was stretchered off during the early exchanges of their league clash against Cape Town City.

Key Players

Patrick Maswanganyi (Orlando Pirates): Pulling the strings up front for the Buccaneers is the 26-year-old, fresh off a productive outing over the weekend. The skilful midfielder’s two assists brought him to eight goal contributions in all competitions this season and he will be determined to continue in the same vein this evening.

Velemseni Ndwandwe (Golden Arrows): The 28-year-old is an influential figure in the Arrows’ midfield and ever-present in the starting lineup. Having debuted as a forward, Ndwandwe has been a key contributor on attack with the uncanny ability to pop up with a decisive touch from time to time.

Head-to-Head

The Buccaneers head to Harmmarsdale amid a dominant spell over their hosts. They have won each of the last four games played, netting an impressive 14 goals in the process. Half of these came in the most recent clash between these two sides – where they subjected the Durbanites to a heavy 7-1 defeat.

It’s a result that stretched the Soweto Giants’ unbeaten run in this fixture to six matches, with the KZN side’s last victory dating back four years ago when they netted two unanswered goals at home to take maximum points. Despite that defeat, Pirates have maintained a positive win record in their visits to Arrows, winning nine of their last 19 games on the road while falling on the losing side just five times.

Overall historic results between the two sides demonstrate that the Buccaneers have been prone to the odd slip-up on occasion, but have only suffered six defeats scattered across the 38 league fixtures played over the past 20 years. They have won the overwhelming majority of these clashes, boasting 21 victories with 11 matches finishing level.

TV Coverage and Ticket Info

The match is set to kick off at 19:30, with live coverage available on SuperSport PSL. Fans can follow live updates on Orlando Pirates’ social media channels.

Tickets are available for sale online on TicketPro as well as selected outlets nationwide.

Following a riveting weekend of knockout football, the two Gauteng rivals formed part of the teams that had booked their spots in the next round. They have been pitted against one another in one of the more enthralling match-ups in the last eight.

It will be somewhat of a grudge match for the Soweto Giants, who are set to lock horns with the last team to defeat them in the final of the esteemed competition. Matsatsansa achieved the feat twice, denying the Buccaneers the 2016 title before lifting the coveted trophy a second successive time after scaling the same hurdle.

In this year’s tournament, United’s endurance was tested en route to the quarter-finals when they went the distance against Championship outfit Cape Town Spurs. It took them 119 minutes to find a winner with Lebohang Maboe landing the decisive blow in dramatic style to secure a path to the next round for the men in blue.

Following early exits in the last two editions, they are now back in the quarterfinals for the first time since 2022 and will look to end Pirates’ reign which extended after a commanding performance at home over the
weekend.

Unlike their Gauteng rivals, the Buccaneers only needed 90 minutes to get past Baroka, beating them 3-1 at Orlando Stadium. They will be back on the road as they look to defend their title for the second consecutive season.

Their next opponent is an all-too-familiar foe and one they have already encountered in knockout football this season when they claimed a 3-1 win in a marathon MTN8 quarter-final in Soweto in August last year. The two sides have also met in the league this season, with the Buccaneers prevailing at home once more.

The upcoming clash presents a clean slate for the Tshwane outfit, who will welcome the change in scenery and competition, while the visitors aim to continue their pursuit of an 11th title.

Fixture dates, match venues, and kick-off time are set to be announced by the League at a later date.

It was a triumphant return home for the defending champions when they joined four other teams in the last eight, with three more spots still to be occupied.

Dominant for the entirety of the first quarter, Pirates were denied clear-cut opportunities throughout despite controlling matters from the jump. The Baroka defence did well to shield Malcolm Jacobs’ goal for much of the opening exchanges amid early pressure from the hosts.

The shot-stopper was first called into action 19 minutes after the first whistle following excellent work from Bucs right-back Deano van Rooyen, who surged across from the right before connecting with Relebohile Mofokeng. The 20-year-old attacker drifted centrally before unleashing a shot which was tipped over the crossbar.

Patrick Maswanganyi followed up with an effort of his own which was dealt with easily by the veteran gloveman.

The wait for the breakthrough only lasted 29 minutes, and it came through Mabasa who finished past Jacobs after making a well-timed run inside the box to connect with a cross from Deon Hotto. 

With the visitors looking to draw level, Pirates were still able to surge deep into opposition territory. They had a chance to go two ahead in the 37th minute as Mofokeng combined with Hotto, with the Namibian international fluffing his lines from just inside the box as he scooped his effort over the bar.

Just as it appeared as if the home side would take only a slim lead into the break, they produced a moment of magic. Paseka Mako and Kabelo Dlamini were both involved along with Mofokeng in an enterprising move that carved the defence open before setting Mabasa up for a relatively easy finish to make it 2-0.

Baroka continued to show some fight in the second half, but the vast majority of the goalmouth action was at the other end. Dlamini drew a save from Jacobs after linking up with Maswanganyi seven minutes after the interval. This was only seconds before halftime substitute Phillip Ndlondlo joined in the action, sending his long-range effort crashing into the crossbar with the keeper out of the equation.

It took another 10 minutes for the Soweto Giants to pull away even further, and their third goal was a result of sustained possessional dominance. They starved the visitors of the ball before knocking it towards Maswanganyi, who played a flick for Mabasa. The striker took one touch before producing a composed finish from just outside the box to complete his hat-trick.

Baroka would however land a blow eventually, following a free kick awarded on the edge of Pirates’ area in the 75th minute. It was taken by Sydney Malivha whose shot found a tricky bounce which aided it past the outstretched Sipho Chaine.

That signalled the end of a relatively quiet afternoon for the Bucs shot-stopper, with Dan Ndhlovu testing him with a stinging shot from range in the game’s dying moments. The 28-year-old came out on top this time around, showing great agility to tip the ball over.

As the clock wound down, the visitors continued in their attempts to throw a spanner in the works. The Buccaneers had however done more than enough to carve a passage into the quarterfinals, as they effortlessly held on to win by a two-goal margin.

Pirates XI: Chaine,  Xoki (Maela 67’), Sibisi, Van Rooyen, Mako, Makhaula (Ndlondlo 46’), Dlamini (Rasebotja 81’), Maswanganyi, Hotto, Mofokeng (Kimvuidi 67’), Mabasa (Makgopa 81’).

In the Buccaneers’ first home Nedbank Cup fixture since encountering Hungry Lions at a similar stage en route to their second straight title, they face a potential banana peel from another side from the second tier. This time around, they are up against a side whose giant- killing feats in the competition are well-documented.

Form Guide

Surprise semifinalists in 2011, Baroka have had one more hurdle to conquer on their way to this stage of the competition. Their two cup fixtures thus far were away from home, but they were undeterred in going past Championship rivals Casric Stars in the preliminary round before brushing off the challenge of third tier outfit Umvoti in the Round of 32.

In doing so, they have netted an impressive five unanswered goals. There has however been a notable disparity in how they fared in the league compared to their form in knockout football. The result against Umvoti stands out as their only win in their five most recent fixtures across competitions while drawing on three occasions.

Their one defeat during this period was a heavy one, and it came at the hands of Venda Football Academy who recorded a 5-1 win at home. After fighting back to claim a point in dramatic style against the University of Pretoria, Bakgaga are winless in their last two matches and are placed eighth in the Championship standings.

They now set their sights on a wounded Bucs side who remain in second place in the top flight, despite falling on the undesired side of a 4-1 scoreline on the road in their last league fixture.

The defending Nedbank Cup champions will nonetheless relish their return to the familiar comforts of Orlando Stadium where they last played in early January, hosting Algeria’s CR Belouizdad in the CAF Champions League.

Their month-long exile from the iconic turf included a successful home outing against fellow Sowetans Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium after back-to-back away wins against Egyptian giants Al Ahly and Richards Bay, respectively.

The 3-1 win against the Natal Rich Boyz was their ticket to the last 16 of the national cup and one of five straight victories collected before their slip-up in Tshwane. Still, in pursuit of three consecutive triumphs in the prestigious competition, the Soweto Giants will be wary of the threat posed by the Limpopo outfit boasting a decent collection of upsets in cup football.

Team News

Bucs defender Thabiso Sesane will likely miss out once more following an injury sustained during Pirates’ victory against Sekhukhune United in Polokwane last week.

However, the hosts could be bolstered by the return of midfielder Thalente Mbatha, whose foot injury ruled him out of the trip to the country’s capital over the weekend. For their visitors, the most significant change heading into the fixture is among the technical personnel.

Assistant coach Foster Hlongwane takes over the reins on an interim basis, replacing Joel Masutha who departed the club after a brief spell.

Key Players

Deon Hotto (Orlando Pirates): The Namibian international heads into this fixture as one of the form players in the Bucs setup with two goals and an assist in each of his last two appearances. A menace on either side of the pitch in both attack and defence, Hotto’s unwavering commitment has the ability to elevate team performance and will be crucial in another must-win fixture.

David Mothipi (Baroka): Unveiled as a new Baroka signing at the start of the ongoing season, the attacker has been an instant hit in his new club colours. Equally comfortable in a central role as well as out wide, Mothipi’s eye for goal has been key all season and he currently sits on seven goals across competitions for Bakgaga.

Head-to-Head

Pirates will be encountering Baroka for the first time since the two sides produced back-to- back goalless stalemates in the 2021/22 stalemates, the season where the team in green dropped down to the second tier of South African football. It has been well over six years since their epic marathon cup final, which finished 2-2 after extra time with Bakgaga edging it in the subsequent penalty shootout.

That remains their only competitive clash outside the league, where the Buccaneers have won each of the three games that have produced a winner. All but one of these previous fixtures have been tight affairs, with the Soweto Giants’ only comfortable win against the Limpopo outfit dating back to January 2018 when they raced to a three-goal lead – courtesy of a brace from Luvuyo Memela and a Musa Nyatama strike – before securing a 3-1 victory.

TV Guide and Ticket Info

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

Tickets to attend the match are available for purchase online at TicketPro and selected outlets nationwide.

The stage is set for the 2025 instalment of the annual event that will be hosted over the Easter Weekend, and it promises to be bigger and better than before.

With over 1,500 team entries received since registration opened last week, the battle to secure a spot in this prestigious competition has been intense. However, only the best of the best will take to the field, with only 44 male and 16 female spots available for the tournament.

This year, the stakes have been raised even higher. To celebrate the continued growth and impact of the Pirates Cup, the organisers have increased the prize money to a massive R250,000. The men’s champions will now walk away with R100 000 (up from R80 000), while the women’s champions will claim R50,000 (up from R40,000).

The Pirates Cup isn’t just a competition – it’s a platform where the country’s rising football stars showcase their talent, chase their dreams, and compete for glory. Expect thrilling matches, fierce rivalries, and unforgettable moments as South Africa’s future football legends make their mark.

Registration for the annual soccer spectacle is still open.

How to Register?

Teams can now register for the tournament through the official Orlando Pirates website at https://piratescup25.forms.app/pirates-cup-2025-registration.

However, space is limited, and teams are encouraged to apply early. It’s important to note that registering does not constitute entry into the competition. Successful applicants will be notified by February 28, 2025.

It was the Soweto Giants third defeat in the league this season and their second such result on the road. Their Tshwane counterparts meanwhile claimed a crucial three points that opened the gap between the two sides to an imposing nine points with the visitors still with a game in hand.

The fixture’s top billing was not matched by the tricky underfoot conditions on the day, where Pirates had a tough time asserting themselves early on. Their opponents navigated the terrain a tad better, and that proved to be the difference in the opening exchanges as many of the initial chances went the way of the men in yellow.

Bucs keeper Sipho Chaine was called upon as early as the seventh minute when he dealt with a long-range effort from midfielder Teboho Mokoena. The bulk of the action remained inside the visitors’ half, but there was still little to excite the sell-out crowd that had turned up during a period where both sets of players battled to find cohesion on the slippery surface.

A set piece in the 13th minute afforded the home side a chance to organise, and that led to the game’s first decisive moment. Grant Kekana provided the crucial touch when he went undetected near the back post, meeting Marcelo Allende’s cross before finishing past Chaine.

Pirates’ attempts to draw level yielded minimal opportunities as they continued to battle for rhythm. There was more work for their shot-stopper at the other end, and he pulled off a superb save in the 19th minute in keeping out a seemingly goalbound header from defender Lucas Suarez.

Things became even more tricky for the visitors eight minutes later, when the Brazilians launched a counter from deep with Lucas Ribeiro making a fine run on the left before placing the ball beyond the reach of the outstretched Chaine.

The Bucs keeper remained in the thick of the action while his opposite number, Ronwen Williams was tasked with relatively comfortable grabs as the Soweto Giants’ struggles continued. A skied effort from Deon Hotto late in the first half meant that the home side’s lead remained intact heading into the break.

There was a bit more intent from Pirates after the restart with the Namibian international central to their effort to pull one back. He got his reward rather spectacularly in the 57th minute when he evaded two defenders in cutting in from the left while combining with Evidence Makgopa before slotting home with his weaker foot to half his side’s deficit.

The Buccaneers’ celebrations were however cut short, with Ribeiro hitting back almost immediately with a strike that restored Sundowns’ two-goal lead. Defender Nkosinathi Sibisi’s attempt at reducing the gap once more was unsuccessful as he fired over the bar following a Bucs set piece.

A tough afternoon became even more complicated as the clock wound down, with Pirates’ task complicated further by another strike. Their fourth goal came from the boot of Mokoena, whose powerful shot from outside the box fizzed past the diving Chaine into the net.

In looking to salvage something from the contest, Pirates made several changes. One of those was the earlier introduction of striker Tshegofatso Mabasa, who was deprived of opportunities for much of his cameo but did manage to knock one just wide of the target deep in injury time with the offside flag already up.

Such was the nature of the Buccaneers’ afternoon, which concluded in a disappointing result that kept their points tally at 33 after 14 games, while their hosts marched to a 10th straightt league victory. 

Pirates XI: Chaine, Xoki, Sibisi, Van Rooyen (Ndlozi 83’), Mako, Makhaula (Nkota 69’), Dlamini (Ndlondlo 83’), Maswanganyi, Hotto, Mofokeng (Kimvuidi 83’), Makgopa (Mabasa 69’).

The Bucs medical team has ruled out Thabiso Sesane and Thalente Mbatha to face the Brazilians.

Sesane has been ruled out after suffering a ruptured tendon during Pirates’ hard-fought 2-1 victory over Sekhukhune United midweek. The injury, which occurred early in the match, has left the young defender in need of surgery.

Meanwhile, Mbatha, the dynamic midfielder and Bafana Bafana international, has also been sidelined after failing a late fitness test. Mbatha picked up his injury during the same match against Sekhukhune, following a collision with an opposition player as he attempted to shoot at goal.

While scans have thankfully ruled out any fractures, the discomfort in his foot has proven too much to overcome in time for today’s clash. 

The Bucs medical team has been working tirelessly to get Mbatha back on the pitch, but the decision has been made to prioritise his recovery. He will now focus on rehabilitation in the coming days, with hopes of a swift return to action. 

In the context of the ongoing quest for league supremacy, it is undoubtedly the biggest clash thus far with its outcome holding the potential to determine the shape of the title race. It is a battle between the two teams occupying the highest spots in the standings, both approaching the halfway mark of their respective campaigns.

Form Guide

Pirates are the side heading into the clash with a bit of ground to make in the title race as they are placed right below their table-topping rivals. Six points separate the two sides with the Buccaneers going in with a game in hand, and the gap in points could be halved by the end of the weekend should things go in their favour in Tshwane.

They have worked up some winning momentum on their return to league football, overcoming rivals Kaizer Chiefs in a dramatic Soweto Derby on Saturday before triumphing over Sekhukhune United in tricky circumstances in Polokwane. This proved to be a welcome set of results for Jose Riveiro’s men who have now bagged 12 out of an available 15 points from their last five games.

In doing so, they remain among the top three teams in terms of the highest points tally away from home. Their four victories and one defeat on the road have earned them an impressive 12 points and place them just behind Sundowns and Stellenbosch when it comes to the league’s best travellers this season.

They however have the unenviable task of inflicting a first home defeat to a side yet to drop points in seven home league fixtures in their backyard. It’s a record that has been key to the hosts’ positioning in the log, with their only defeat throughout the season occurring on the road.

They approach the match against the Buccaneers on a roll, having won all of the nine matches played since they last failed to get over the line in the Premiership. While they have been dominant throughout, recent form will be sure to give them an extra boost in confidence following their commanding performances against Lamontville Golden Arrows and SuperSport United – against whom they netted a total of seven unanswered goals across their two outings over the past week.

Team News

Defender Thabiso Sesane is a worry for Pirates ahead of their trip across the Jukskei River. The 24-year-old only lasted 18 minutes in the victory over Babina Noko and could sit out the trip to Loftus.

The experienced Tapelo Xoki – brought on in his place in midweek – is among the likely options along with club captain Innocent Maela. Also waiting in the wings is Olisa Ndah who is making his way back to match-fitness, having resumed training.

For Sundowns, central midfielder Bathusi Aubaas adds to Miguel Cardoso’s options in the heart of the action. The 29-year-old has served a two-match suspension after he was given his marching orders during Sundowns’ 5-2 win against Sibanye in the Nedbank Cup. They will however be without veteran attacker Themba Zwane, who has been out of action since pulling up injured while on national duty in October.

Key Players

Deon Hotto (Orlando Pirates): Ever present in the Bucs lineup is the Namibian stalwart, who displayed his class and versatility once again with an impactful display in midweek. The 34-year-old has mainly started in defence but slots in effortlessly on attack, and his goal and assist against Sekhukhune have propelled him to double figures in goal contributions this season.

Tashreeq Matthews (Mamelodi Sundowns): While it’s still early days in his Sundowns career, Matthews has not hesitated to show why he is regarded as one of the brightest young talents in the country. He has made a number of impressive cameos throughout the season, and made a strong case for a second consecutive start in the league when he netted a brace in the Tshwane Derby, taking his league tally to four goals along as many assists in just eight appearances.

Head-to-Head

Pirates returned with a single point from their last league visit to Loftus, despite finishing the game a man short. Midfielder Miguel Timm was sent off early in the second half with the hosts capitalising on their numerical advantage through a goal from Marcelo Allende soon after, but a late Tapelo Xoki strike from the penalty spot ensured a share of the spoils. This meant that they avoided conceding the dreaded league double, having fallen short in the reverse fixture at Orlando Stadium.

While some recent success – which includes back-to-back cup finals – could give the Soweto Giants some confidence, it has been one-way traffic in favour of their Tshwane counterparts in the league. As a result, Pirates will be chasing their first league triumph in the fixture since January 2020.

In games played in the country’s capital, the Brazilians have enjoyed a slight edge in the past decade winning eight of the 20 fixtures while the Buccaneers boast six wins with the other six matches finishing level.

TV Coverage and Ticket Info

The match is scheduled to kick off at 15:30 and will be broadcast live on SuperSport PSL and SABC 1. Live updates will be provided across all Orlando Pirates social media channels.

Tickets to attend the match are sold out.

It was second versus fourth in Polokwane, with the visitors looking for a win that would help them keep touching distance with the table-topping Mamelodi Sundowns ahead of Saturday’s top-of-the-table showdown. They were pitted against a Babina Noko outfit that had proven a difficult adversary on their home patch with just five league points dropped as hosts thus far.

One change was made from the Bucs side that triumphed in the Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs, with Paseka Mako replacing Mohau Nkota. This pushed Deon Hotto up front, and the Namibian international was a factor from the jump.

He got on the scoresheet through a free kick five minutes from the first whistle, following a foul on Patrick Maswanganyi. Having to deliver from a tight angle, Hotto opted for the direct approach and was rewarded as he caught goalkeeper Ali Sangare off guard with his effort that snuck in on the near post to give the visitors an early lead.

Despite their early advantage, Pirates remained dominant throughout the early exchanges. The two centre-backs, Thabiso Sesane and Nkosinathi Sibisi each popped up in attacking positions and both went narrowly wide of goal with headers from set pieces.

It was also through dead-ball situations that the hosts found their initial opportunities at goal, but shots from Sipho Mbule and Ellis Rammala did not trouble Bucs keeper Sipho Chaine. They had some ground still to cover as the two sides headed into the tunnel, with Pirates maintaining a slim advantage as the whistle sounded.

Sekhukhune’s desperate pursuit for parity was complicated moments after the restart as Pirates pulled two goals clear. The second came off the head of Makhehleni Makhaula who sprung up to nod in from inside the box, making it 2-0 in the 47th minute.

Maswanganyi and Makgopa followed up with their shots, with the latter coming the closest to providing a third when he forced Sangare into a save 68 minutes in. Babina Noko rallied back soon after piling pressure on the visitors as they looked to remain in the contest.

They gave themselves every bit of an opportunity to salvage something from the contest, pulling one back through ex-Bucs midfielder Linda Mntambo who followed up his initial shot from range which hit the woodwork. Pirates’ failure to clear from that earlier attempt allowed him the opportunity to finish from close up and he duly obliged with a strike that set up a tricky finish.

The goal did not deter the Soweto Giants in their pursuit for their third goal of the night, which nearly came by through the boot of Relebohile Mofokeng. The youngster forced Sangare to his left in completing a crucial save in the final 10 minutes.

The Ivorian’s effort was matched by his opposite number moments later, with the Bucs shot-stopper pulling a reflex save to keep out an attempt for replacement striker Chibuike Ohizu late in the contest. The Nigerian forward had another go with the clock running out, but it was the South African international who came out top once more.

An elongated injury time presented a frantic finish, with Pirates holding firm amid a determined effort from the Limpopo outfit. There was no further change to the scoreline as the visitors made it two wins in as many league matches to keep the gap between themselves and Sundowns to six points ahead of Saturday’s highly-anticipated encounter at Loftus.

Pirates XI: Chaine, Sesane (Xoki 18’), Sibisi, Van Rooyen (Rasebotja 86’), Mako, Mbatha (Dlamini 86’), Makhaula, Maswanganyi, Hotto (Shandu 69’), Mofokeng, Mabasa (Makgopa 46’).

There is rarely time for a breather in competitive football as the Soweto Giants continue in their punishing schedule. They are faced with two testing assignments against top-four opposition in the space of days, beginning with a bruising outing in Polokwane.

Form Guide

It comes just days after the big Soweto Derby where they edged rivals Kaizer Chiefs in a dramatic encounter at FNB Stadium, bagging three points to keep a strong position in the standings. It was their fourth win in as many matches across competitions, but a return to winning ways in the league after a narrow defeat in their previous appearance in the competition.

Babina Noko now stand between them and a second consecutive three-point haul which could go some way in plugging the six-point gap between themselves and current log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns. They find themselves in second place a dozen matches into their league campaign, where they have hit double figures under the wins column.

Three of the 10 victories posted this season came in their last five outings, where they twice landed on the losing side. They have maintained a mostly good record away from home, winning three times with four unanswered goals before conceding the goal that would lead to their first defeat on the road.

Looking to reclaim their earlier form, they are now up against a Sekhukhune side that has been one of the toughest to overcome in their home patch. The Limpopo outfit has hosted seven different teams thus far this season, claiming 16 out of a possible 21 home points

They currently sit in fourth place on the log with eight points won through two wins and two draws in their five most recent fixtures. They are winless in their last two league games however, having lost to Chiefs before rallying from a goal down to rescue a point away to Stellenbosch.

Team News

The hosts go into the match missing two key players through suspension. Midfielder Relebogile Mokhuoane serves a one-match ban after picking up his fourth caution for the season against Stellenbosch while his partner in the centre of the park, Siphesihle Mkhize is ruled out due to a red-card collected in the same fixture.

The Buccaneers meanwhile emerged from the derby with no fresh suspension concerns. On the injury front, a few players are inching closer to a return to action with Goodman Mosele and Zakhele Lepasa among those that could soon feature for the first time this season.

Key Players

Makhehleni Makhaula (Orlando Pirates): The veteran midfielder not only provides experience, but also an impressive workrate and crucial leadership in the middle of the park. The 35-year-old impressed with his Man of the Match performance in the Soweto Derby, covering plenty of ground to break up play while regularly turning defence into attack in a tireless 90-minute display.

Keletso Makgalwa (Sekhukhune United): The former SA youth international has made an immediate impact since joining Babina Noko at the start of the season, delivering key contributions on a regular basis. Having started in each of Sekhukhune’s league games, Makgalwa’s accurate passing and powerful right foot make him a constant threat to the opposition.

Head-to-Head

Wednesday’s match will only be the seventh fixture between Pirates and Sekhukhune and so far, results have largely favoured the side playing at home. The Buccaneers remain the only team to emerge victorious on the road, winning 1-0 on their first league visit to Babina Noko in a game played at Ellis Park in April 2022.

They  have since lost two in two since their hosts’ move to Polokwane, but do maintain an unbeaten record at Orlando Stadium which has kept them ahead in terms of overall results. Things remain tight however, with Pirates boasting three wins overall to Sekhukhune’s two with one match finishing in a stalemate.

There is nothing to separate the two teams in terms of goals scored in their previous meetings. The 12 that have gone in so far are evenly shared at six apiece, with each team finding the net four times at home while only conceding twice.

TV Coverage and Ticket Info

The game kicks off at 19:30 and will be televised live on SuperSport Variety 3 (208). You can also follow the action by keeping an eye on live updates posted across Orlando Pirates social media channels.

Tickets are available online at Computicket as well as selected outlets nationwide.

Billed as the hosts in the highly-anticipated encounter, José Riveiro’s charges were looking for a winning return to league football after three weeks in cup action. Their first assignment back was a big one as they renewed rivalries with the Glamour Boys, who had run into some form in the lead-up to the mammoth clash.

With a sellout crowd showing up to the World Cup venue, fireworks began just seconds after kick-off – helped along by a nervy start from both sets of defenders. Chiefs were the first to concede a chance to the opposition, relinquishing possession to Patrick Maswanganyi who connected with Relebohile Mofokeng before a swift recovery from the visitors. A similar opportunity was afforded to Pule Mmodi at the other end, with the winger going one-on-one with Sipho Chaine who left his line to pull off a crucial stop.

The exciting start was only a prelude to a scrappy period which was not completely void of shots at goal. Pirates came close through Tshegofatso Mabasa, whose shot from close range was deflected out by Rushwin Dortley. It was followed up by a wayward effort towards the Bucs goal by midfielder Sibongiseni Mthethwa, who placed the ball way off target from a long way out.

Much of the first-half chances continued to fall to the home sides as they benefited from pressure placed on goalkeeper Bruce Bvuma. The shot-stopper placed a few wayward passes, leading to goal attempts for Thalente Mbatha and Tshegofatso Mabasa. It was the striker who had the best of these opportunities when he received the ball inside the penalty area moments from the break, only to direct his effort wide.

The two Soweto Giants headed into the tunnel still goalless, despite the odd close call at both halves of the pitch. Chiefs would emerge from the interval looking the more determined of the two as they fired the first shot on target early in the second period through Pule Mmodi, who could only place the ball into Chaine’s hands.

Pirates were the dominant side however as Mabasa forced a save off Bvuma with a right-footed shot from a tight angle in the 57th minute. His was followed by a similar attempt from Mofokeng just five minutes later, moments before Makhehlenii Makhaula launched a long-range stinger which could only be parried out for a corner by the Amakhosi gloveman.

Bvuma was kept busy throughout the dying moments, denying Deon Hotto twice in the final 10 minutes to keep things goalless. He looked to have pulled off a crucial last-gasp save in injury time to thwart Mofokeng who had surged into the penalty area, but it was aided by a pull from Njabulo Blom and the referee swiftly pointed to the penalty spot.

Patrick Maswanganyi stepped up to take the spot kick, producing an audacious chip that sent Bvuma the wrong way with seconds left on the clock. There was to be no way back for the visitors, who looked to launch the ball upfield in search of an unlikely equaliser.

The three points eventually went the way of the Buccaneers, who showed immense grit to triumph once again in the famous Derby.

Pirates XI: Chaine, Sibisi, Sesane, Van Rooyen (Shandu 83’), Hotto, Mbatha (Mako 83’), Makhaula, Maswanganyi, Nkota (Dlalmini 46’), Mofokeng, Mabasa (Makgopa 75’).

Undoubtedly the biggest fixture in the country’s sports calendar, the anticipation for the iconic spectacle has once again been through the roof. This has been reflected through the speed at which the match tickets have sold out.

With kick-off at 15:30, gates open at 11:30 and fans are encouraged to arrive as early as possible to avoid delays. As is always the case, no tickets will be sold at the stadium and only valid tickets will be accepted.

In preparation for the fixture which will draw tens of thousands to the iconic venue, there are measures that have been put in place to ensure a seamless matchday experience for football lovers.

Road Closures

Several roads in and around the stadium precinct will be cordoned off on match day. Traffic will be affected in the following locations;

• Cnr Nasrec Road and Shaft 17
• Cnr Nasrec Road and Randshow Road
• Cnr Stadium and Nasrec Road
• Cnr Stadium Road and Soccer City Road
• Cnr League Road and Booysens Reserve Road
• Soweto Highway off ramp onto League Road
• Soweto Highway North to South and South to North

Transport Options

There are a number of transport options available for those attending the Derby, including the Park and Ride system available at five departure points around Johannesburg. This can be accessed at the following locations;

• Montecasino
• Sandton City
• Clearwater Mall
• Mall of Africa
• Gold Reef City

To ensure early arrival at the stadium, departure time at each pick-up location is between 12:00 and 13:00 while the final bus after the match will depart at 18:00. Park and Ride tickets are available for purchase at www.ticketpro.co.za

https://bit.ly/FNB25

Other transport options include Rea Vaya and Gautrain bus services, as well as taxis that will be operating from different locations.

For those that will be using private transport, free parking will be available in and around FNB Stadium with additional signage placed to guide patrons to the parking areas. Trained security personnel will be deployed at the various parking areas. Illegally parked vehicles will be towed.

Matchday Activities

While the 90-minutes spectacle between the two Soweto Giants will be the main attraction, the entertainment starts well before kick-off. Orlando Pirates, along with the club’s partners and venue sponsors, will host activations around the stadium. Official team merchandise will also be available for purchase with both teams setting up stalls.

Pre-match performances begin at 12:15 with DJ Stopper taking the stage, followed by Muzi and DBN Gogo. Robot Boi and DJ Sonic are also among the performers set to provide live entertainment throughout the day.

Located opposite Gate M at FNB Stadium, this vibrant beer garden promises to be a celebration of football, music, and togetherness, offering a fun and festive atmosphere for all match-goers. Gates open at 11h30, exclusively to ticket holders for the game.

Bertie Grobbelaar, CEO of SMSA, said:

“We are proud to partner with Carling Black Label to create an experience that brings fans together before one of the biggest fixtures of the year. By encouraging spectators to arrive early, we aim to reduce congestion on the roads and ease access into the stadium, making match day safer and more enjoyable for everyone. We are delighted that SAB has joined us in this initiative to make Derby Day even more memorable.”

Attendees will enjoy an incredible lineup of South African musical talent on the Beer Garden stage, featuring:

• DJ Stopper: 12h15 – 13h00
• Muzi: 13h00 – 13h45
• DBN Gogo: 13h45 – 14h30

Powered by the SAB Gig Rig and state-of-the-art sound systems, the performances will conclude at 14h30, ensuring fans have ample time to find their seats before kick-off.

What fans can expect at the Early Arrival Beer Garden:

• A wide selection of SAB beverages, including Castle Lager, Castle Lite, Carling Black Label, Brutal Fruit, and Flying Fish. All drinks are priced at R40 per 500ml can, with cash and card payments accepted.
• A variety of food vendors offering tasty snacks and meals.
• Ample seating under Carling Black Label umbrellas to unwind and connect with fellow fans.
• Test your skills at the SAB Activation for a chance to win exciting prizes

Drawn against the KwaZulu-Natal outfit first up, the Soweto Giants had found themselves contesting one of the trickier match-ups in the Round of 32. They began their quest for a third straight Nedbank Cup triumph away to a side that had enjoyed rare cup success against them in the recent past.

Having attracted a sell-out crowd to the famous Umlazi venue, the two sides produced a cagey start with the first 15 minutes running by with no clear chances at goal. It was the defending champions who were first to find any sort of cohesion as they camped in the opposition half amid a compact defensive structure employed by the hosts.

They had to wait until the 17th minute for the first shot to come about, courtesy of Patrick Maswanganyi. The midfielder looked to curl one in from the edge of the box but landed it inches over the crossbar.

He however succeeded minutes from his earlier effort, as he found the breakthrough with a stunner from outside the box. This was after making a well-timed run towards the edge of the penalty area, benefitting from combination play between Mohau Nkota and Relebohile Mofokeng before unleashing a shot that evaded the diving Ian Otieno on its way to the back of the net.

The trio would repeat the sequence in the 26th minute when Pirates doubled their lead. This time with Maswanganyi finishing from inside the box as he took a few touches to set himself up before slotting home after he was again set up by Mofokeng.

The visitors’ lead could have been halved moments after the half-hour mark, when their defence was stretched. Thato Mahlomme found himself in space out on the left and was denied by the upright.

The momentum remained with the home side as halftime approached, but none of the chances they created could affect the scoreline. This meant that the Buccaneers took a comfortable lead as the two sides headed into the break.

Their two-goal advantage however only lasted two minutes after the restart, with the Natal Rich Boyz getting a dream start to the second period. Their top goal-scorer for the ongoing season, Yanela Mbuthuma provided a crucial goal from close range when he tapped in to reduce his side’s deficit.

Things could have been level just moments later as Langelihle Mhlongo went for goal from a fair distance, only to direct his effort over the crossbar. Pirates hit back almost immediately with an attempt from a similar distance, delivered by Thalente Mbatha who also failed to find his bearings.

The Soweto Giants’ most promising period in the second half came with 20 minutes left on the clock when they managed to conjure up a few opportunities. Mbatha and Tshegofatso Mabasa each could have created daylight between the two sides if not for Otieno, who pulled off a couple of crucial saves to keep the visitors’ lead to a minimum.

The Kenyan international however had no answer for the killer blow delivered by the defending champions deep in injury time. It was delivered by Mabasa, who produced a superb turn inside the box before firing home to restore his side’s two-goal lead with very little time remaining on the clock.

There wasn’t a lot that the home side could do to claw their way into the contest following the late strike, as Pirates avoided a potential banana peel to march into the Round of 16.

Pirates XI: Buthelezi, Sesane, Xoki (Maela 75’), Van Rooyen (Ndlozi 50’), Mbatha (Dlamini 75’), Makhaula, Maswanganyi, Nkota (Shandu 65’), Mofokeng, Mabasa.

Following a recent disruption to their schedule, it’s a return to domestic cup football for the Soweto Giants as they begin their venture to extend their reign as champions in the illustrious competition. They recently achieved a similar feat in the MTN8 where they bagged a third straight title. First up on their sights is a side that promises to provide a stiff challenge in what is one of a few all-Premiership match-ups in the opening round.

Form Guide

Knockout football has been a consistent feature for the Bucs throughout the season. They began their campaign with a successful MTN8 run which was quickly followed by involvement in the CAF Champions League preliminary rounds. They have recently advanced past the group stage through to the quarter-finals of the latter, with their cup record still only blemished by an early exit from the Carling Knockout.

The game against the Natal Rich Boyz arrives after a run of consecutive victories against CR Belouizdad of Algeria and Egyptian giants Al Ahly, while boasting four wins in their last five matches across competitions. Their only defeat in this sequence was in their most recent domestic outing, which was a league game away to Cape Town City which finished 1-0 in favour of the hosts.

In attempting to further cement their status as South Africa’s cup kings, Pirates cannot afford a similar slip-up against the men from KwaZulu-Natal who have had a brief but promising taste of cup football so far this season. They made it past the first two rounds of the Carling Knockout – going past Sekhukhune United and Cape Town City – before exiting in the semifinals.

While they have displayed glimpses of their ability to prevail in the pressure situations associated with cup football, similar success in the league has eluded them. They have so far amassed just two wins in 14 Premiership fixtures. They have failed to get over the line in four of their five most recent games, falling on the losing side three times while winning once and collecting a single draw.

With somewhat of a clean slate presented by their clash against the Buccaneers, the main item on their agenda will be to spark their season back to life with a famous victory. Their opponents, on the other hand, will go in determined to continue their dominance in the competition having played an impressive 10 matches since their last Nedbank Cup defeat.

Team News

Bucs coach José Riveiro will be forced to do a bit of shuffling at the back, due to the unavailability of defender Nkosinathi Sibisi. The 29-year-old is suspended for the fixture after picking up his fourth yellow card for the season in Cape Town.

Pirates will also be without Thabiso Monyane who is recovering from a hamstring injury picked up in the same fixture. A few more players are on the mend however, with Olisa Ndah and Goodman Mosele among those primed for a return in the near future.

Key Players

Sipho Chaine (Orlando Pirates): Key to Pirates’ excellent start to the season has been their defence, and the man between the sticks has been an important component in that regard. Chaine has kept six clean sheets in the league so far and 13 in all competitions, while his ball-playing ability adds an extra dimension to the team.

Yanela Mbuthuma (Richards Bay): The young centre-forward continues to grow into a key player for the Rich Boyz, effortlessly adapting to his role as the main man upfront. Half the goals scored by the hosts in all competitions this season have come off Mbuthuma’s boot while he also has an assist to his name, underlining his importance to the cause.

Head-to-Head

While recent form suggests a favourable match-up for the Buccaneers, they will be fully aware that there are never any guarantees in knockout football. Their hosts have showcased that at Moses Mabhida Stadium in the not-so-distant past when they edged past them on penalties during the second round of the 2023 Carling Knockout – a fixture that remains the only cup meeting between the two sides so far.

Aside from that particular upset, Riveiro’s men have had a slight upper hand in games against the KZN outfit as they boast wins in three of the six league games played between the two. The most recent of these was during the earlier part of the ongoing season, where Pirates only needed a solitary strike from Evidence Makgopa to collect all three points at King Zwelithini.

While not short of fireworks, their fixtures have not produced a flurry of goals with only five scored in regulation time throughout the seven encounters played to date. It is the Soweto Giants who lead comfortably in this regard as they account for four of these, while the Natal Rich Boyz only managed to find the net in their shock 1-0  win at Orlando Stadium towards the end of the 2023/24 league campaign.

TV Coverage and Ticket Info

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

Tickets are available online at TicketPro as well as selected outlets nationwide.

It is another home outing for the Bucs Reserves who are looking to build a head of steam halfway through their campaign, having found themselves in unfamiliar territory in mid-table. They welcome a struggling Gallants outfit returning to the competition after a season-long absence.

Form

Ahead of the weekend’s encounter, it is the home side who will go in with a degree of confidence. This is after returning to winning ways with a 2-1 victory against Polokwane City at the same venue. That result ended a tough three-match run where they could only manage a solitary point through a stalemate against Richards Bay, which was immediately followed by defeats to fierce rivals Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns.

As a result of the recent run of form, the young Buccaneers have managed a meagre seven points in their last five matches, only winning twice in the process. There has not been much of a difference when comparing their form at home to their overall returns over an equal amount of fixtures as they also boast two victories and a stalemate with two defeats.

Despite indifferent form on all fronts, they will be regarded as odds-on favourites for this particular encounter. This is largely due to the form of the opposition, not only heading into the match, but throughout the entire campaign.

With 14 games played, Gallants remain the only team yet to taste victory in the DDC. They visit the Soweto Giants amid a torrid run of six straight defeats and have only amassed three points throughout the season.

While emerging as the whipping boys thus far, they have rarely suffered embarrassing losing margins of late, and have collected two thirds of their total points tally on the road.

Their sights will be set on breaking their duck under the win column, with victory giving them the slightest chance of avoiding the dreaded wooden spoon.

Head-to-Head

Gallants’ return to the big time means they cross paths with Pirates once more, having not done so at this level in nearly two years. Their most recent encounter finished in a resounding victory for the Soweto Giants, who recorded a 4-1 win with goals from Gomolemo Khoto, Njabulo Mndebele, Relebohile Mofokeng, and Mehluleli Maphumulo. That was the Buccaneers’ second win in three clashes with Bahlabane Ba Ntwa, who were victors in the first ever encounter between the two sides.

While there is no real daylight in terms of games won in this relatively young rivalry, it is a different story when it comes to goals scored. Pirates are well-clear in that regard, having found the net 11 times in the three matches with Gallants currently sitting on three.

How to Follow Orlando Pirates Reserves vs Marumo Gallants Reserves

Kick-off is at 10:00 and the game will not be televised. Live updates will be posted across Orlando Pirates social media channels.

The move sees Gilberto return to his hometown club, pending the successful completion of a medical.

The biggest and most competitive Under-21 soccer tournament returns in 2025! And this year’s instalment promises to be bigger and better than before.

The Pirates Cup tournament is a fantastic opportunity for teams to come together and compete at the highest level. This is an invitation only event and space is very limited  

How to Register?

Teams can now register for the tournament through the official Orlando Pirates website at https://piratescup25.forms.app/pirates-cup-2025-registration

However, space is limited, and teams are encouraged to apply early. It’s important to note that registering does not constitute entry into the competition. Successful applicants will be notified by February 28, 2025.

Stadium Management South Africa (SMSA) has introduced a Park and Ride system that aims to address the long-standing issue of traffic congestion experienced during the Derby and to expand the public transport options available to attendees. The decision follows the tremendous success of the park and ride option at the recent Chris Brown concert, where nearly 20 000 patrons utilised the service on each concert day.

Speaking about the initiative, Bertie Grobbelaar, CEO of SMSA, stated:

“The massive success of the park and ride option at the Chris Brown concert demonstrates the significant demand for alternative and convenient transport solutions. We are excited to extend this option to Derby attendees, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free match-day experience.”

To further streamline the experience, the traffic and transport management plan for the Derby includes dedicated bus lanes to and from the venue, ensuring minimal delays and maximum convenience.

Park and Ride Details:

SA Park and Ride offers the following convenient pickup points, where spectators can safely leave their vehicles under the supervision of trained security personnel and be transported to and from the venue:

To further streamline the experience, the traffic and transport management plan for the Derby includes dedicated bus lanes to and from the venue, ensuring minimal delays and maximum convenience.

Ticket Information:

Tickets for the park and ride option are available now online at www.ticketpro.co.za

SMSA encourages all attendees to take advantage of this stress-free transport option and join us in making this Derby not only a thrilling match but also an event marked by efficient and safe travel.

For more information, visit our website or contact our offices at 011 247 5310 alternatively visit www.parkandridesa.com

Joining Orlando Pirates in the Quarterfinals are Al Ahly, Al Hilal, AS Far, ES Tunis, Pyramids, Mamelodi Sundowns, and MC Alger.

Here is a recap of the Group Stages:

GENERAL OVERVIEW

Highest Scoring Match: Al Ahly vs CR Belouizdad – 6:1

Top Goal Scorer: Wessam Abu Ali (Al Ahly) & Emam Ashour (Al Ahly) – 4   

Most Assists: Meziane Bentahar (CR Belouizdad) – 5

Undefeated: Orlando Pirates & FAR Rabat – 0

Best Attack: Al Ahly & Pyramids FC – 14

Best Defence:  MC Alger – 2

Worst Attack: Djoliba – 0

Worst Defence: Stade d’Abidjan – 18

Most Points: Orlando Pirates – 14

Least Points: Stade d’Abidjan – 1

Most Wins: Orlando Pirates, ES Tunis & Pyramids FC – 4

STATS CORNER – INDIVIDUAL

Most Shots Taken:  Jephte Kitambala Bola (Maniema) – 28

Most Shots on Target: Wessam Abu Ali (Al Ahly) – 12

Most Key Passes: Youcef Belaili (ES Tunis) – 21

Most Passes: Teboho Mokoena (Sundowns) – 454

Most Passes In Final Third: Relebohile Mofokeng (Pirates) – 96

Most Fouled Player:  Dabanda (Sagrada) – 21

Most Fouls Committed: Andy Delot (MC Alger) – 19

Most Ball Recoveries: KenanGlougbe (Djoliba) – 48

Most Touches In Opp Box: Jephte Kitambala Bola (Maniema) – 44

STATS CORNER – TEAM (TOP 3)

Most Touches: 1.Mamelodi Sundowns (4117); 2. Orlando Pirates (4100); 3. Al Ahly (4030)

Passes In Final Third: 1. Mamelodi Sundowns (495); 2. Orlando Pirates (478); Al Ahly (448)

xG: 1. ES Tunis (11.2); 2. Al Ahly (10.5) 3. CR Belouizdad (8.3)

xA: 1. ES Tunis (8.2); 2. Al Ahly (7.2); 3. CR Belouizdad (6.2)

Most Shots On Target: 1. Al Ahly (40); 2. ES Tunis (33); 3. CR Belouizdad (28)

Most Shots Off Target: 1. Djoliba (43); 2. Maniema Union (41); 3. CR Belouizdad (38)

It was the Buccaneers who reigned supreme, bagging their second away victory in as many matches in North Africa. The result also ensured that they finished the group unbeaten with an impressive 14 points, edging clear of the Egyptians who began the recently-concluded phase of the competition as favourites.

While occupying the top two spots with no chance of slipping out of the race for the quarter-finals, the two sides still had more than enough to play for heading into the fixture.The hosts were not short of chances throughout the first 45, keeping the defensive pair of Nkosinathi Sibisi and Thabiso Sesane busy along with goalkeeper Sipho Chaine.

They grew into the game quite early on, following a few half-chances that fell the way of the visitors and created plenty of work for the Bucs shot-stopper. He was called upon on several occasions and made a few commanding stops amid intense pressure. 

Emam Ashour and Wessam Abou Ali had the best opportunities in the first half, with Chaine standing between them and the opener. The Buccaneers were able to cling on amid the pressure and the two sides went into the break still level.

The second half began with Pirates showing a bit more purpose and they looked to edge ahead four minutes from the restart. This was when Paseka Mako set up Deon Hotto, whose header looped wide. 

The wait for the opener only lasted a further four minutes with Relebohile Mofokeng showing great awareness, following a slip-up at the back. The Bucs attacker pounced on a loose ball inside the box, and made no mistake in converting the chance to make it 1-0 to the visitors.

This spurred the Red Devils on as they sought the equaliser, with Chaine again proving to be the difference as he made another excellent save to keep out a shot from Abou Ali.  Their pursuit for parity however only lasted until the 69th minute as Hussein El Shahat drew them level when he chipped the Bucs keeper after his side had turned possession over following a loose pass down the middle.

Abou Ali and Chaine resumed their battle, with the shot-stopper coming out tops once more a minute after the goal. The Buccaneers meanwhile looked to catch the hosts out on the counter while bombarded by frequent attacks at the back.

They did manage to restore their lead, and it was against the run of play with three players who had just been introduced all involved in the goal. This was when Kabelo Dlamini delivered a cross from the left flank into the box, met by Tshegofatso Mabasa whose header crashed into the crossbar. Gilberto was on hand to make the most of the rebound as he headed in from close range for his first competitive goal in Pirates colours.

With the 1995 champions ahead in the final 10 minutes of regulation time, there was still enough time for the home side to turn things around. They looked to do so through Abou Ali, who dragged his shot narrowly wide in the 88th minute.

Seven minutes of added time meant that Pirates could not afford to try to cruise into the sunset, and it looked as if Rami Rabia had set Al Ahly up for a possible victory when he volleyed into the back of the net deep in injury time. It was however not to be, with the referee spotting an offside in the build-up to the defender’s effort.

That proved to be their last real attempt at the Bucs goal, with the match soon coming to an end. The final whistle sealed an incredible result for Pirates who bagged their fourth win of the group stage as they bagged a famous victory in Cairo.

Pirates XI: Chaine, Sesane, Sibisi, Lebitso (Ndlozi 56’), Mako, Mbatha (Dlamini 77’), Makhaula, Maswanganyi (Rasebotja 77’), Mofokeng, Hotto (Gilberto 80’), Makgopa (Mabasa 80’).

The two African giants are separated by only a single point heading into the encounter with the Buccaneers leading the charge. Meanwhile, the chasing pack –  in the form of Algeria’s CR Belouizdad and Ivorian outfit Stade d’Abidjan – is out of the race.

While the two crucial qualifying slots have been occupied with a game to spare, there is still more than enough motivation for each side to put on a determined effort on the final match day. First place is up for grabs with Pirates also going in with the added incentive of finishing the group stage unbeaten.

This has been echoed by defender Nkosinathi Sibisi, who has led the team out throughout this stage of the competition.

“The team is highly motivated when we go into a game against Al Ahly,” he told orlandopiratesfc.com. “We want to finish the group unbeaten and we’d like to finish at the top of our group. I think that’s our main objective. We’re aiming to get a positive result here in Cairo.”

As one of South Africa’s two representatives in the tournament, the Buccaneers are also the source of national pride. Sibisi believes a positive result against the defending champions, who began the campaign as group favourites, will hold great significance.

“Our main concern is getting a positive result here and hopefully, it will be good enough to finish the group unbeaten,” he said. “That’s our focus and we want to represent our country and make our country proud.”

The highly-anticipated fixture kicks off at 18:00 and will be televised live on SuperSport Variety 54 (209) and SABC 2.

It’s the Bucs Reserves’ first home fixture of the new year and an opportunity to trigger a run of consistent results as the season approaches its halfway mark. They are presented with a tricky challenge in the form of a side with a similar agenda after a tough start to the campaign.

Form Guide

Pirates kicked the year off with another disappointing result, going down 2-1 away to Mamelodi Sundowns. This made it three games without a win, having also lost to Kaizer Chiefs in a game that was preceded by a stalemate against Richards Bay.

The point earned against the Natal Rich Boyz was the Buccaneers’ fourth in their last five fixtures, with the rest coming courtesy of an away victory over defending champions Stellenbosch. It’s a turn of form that has placed them in eighth position in the standings, 11 points behind the log leaders.

Returning to the Vaal after two tough away fixtures could be just the spark needed by the Soweto Giants, who have fared slightly better at home throughout the season. They have recorded a single home defeat since kicking off their campaign but have mainly struggled to get over the line, securing just two wins while drawing their other three games.

Their next opponents are a side that has had bigger struggles on the road, last earning an away point in September last year. Polokwane come into the fixture on the back of five straight defeats as the visiting team and are 12th in the standings.

They began the new year with a goalless stalemate at home to Chippa United, ending a losing streak that had stretched to three matches. Like Pirates, they have earned just four points in their five most recent outings but could fancy their chances of bagging their first win since early November.

Head-to-Head

The visitors will take some confidence into Saturday’s match, following their success when they last encountered the young Buccaneers. This is after taking full advantage of their numerical advantage to net an injury time winner after Jabulani Mokone was sent off midway through the second half.

The reverse fixture had gone the way of the Soweto Giants, who had cruised to a comfortable 3-0 win at Rand Stadium with Ciniso Mazibuko, Mehluleli Maphumulo, and Mpumelelo Ndaba all finding the net.

Despite trading equal blows last season, it is the hosts who maintain a positive record in the fixture with four wins in the last five encounters. They also lead comfortably in the goal-scoring stakes, having scored 10 goals while only conceding twice during this period.

How to Follow Orlando Pirates Reserves vs Polokwane City Reserves

The game is scheduled to kick off at 10:00 and will not be televised. Live updates will be provided across Orlando Pirates social media platforms.

According to recent numbers, only 15,000 tickets remain.

Ticket Information:

General Stand Tickets are available at TicketPro outlets nationwide. Prices start at just R100.

Hospitality Packages:

Take your match-day experience to the next level with exclusive hospitality tickets available from SAIL:

• Standard Hospitality: R3,495
• Premium Hospitality: R4,250
• VVIP Experience: R8,250

For more information on hospitality packages, email bookings@sail.co.za or call 082 805 3150

However, any notion that the upcoming clash between the Mighty Buccaneers and the Red Devils is a mere formality would be a gross miscalculation. With the top spot in Group C still up for grabs, this weekend’s match promises to be a high-stakes encounter.

Battle for Group Supremacy

As it stands, Orlando Pirates lead the group with 11 points from five matches, while Al Ahly trail closely behind with 10 points after the same number of matches. This sets the stage for a winner-takes-all showdown on Saturday, with both teams vying for the coveted first-place finish.

First or Second?

With both teams competing on multiple fronts in their respective domestic campaigns, one might expect the coaches to rotate their squads to ease the burden of a congested schedule. However, this is highly unlikely given the significance of finishing atop the group.

A first-place finish guarantees a seeded position in the knockout draw, ensuring a clash against a second-placed team from another group. Additionally, the seeded team enjoys the advantage of hosting the decisive second leg in the knockout rounds.

But is this truly an advantage?

Historical trends suggest otherwise. Over the last seven editions of the CAF Champions League, only three champions finished first in their group. The remaining four winners emerged from second place.

Interestingly, the last time Orlando Pirates and Al Ahly crossed paths in this competition was in 2013. Both teams advanced from Group A, which also included Egyptian giants Zamalek and AC Leopards. That year, they met again in the final, adding another layer of intrigue to this storied rivalry.

As we prepare for this pivotal encounter, here’s an in-depth preview of what fans can expect.

Current Form (Last Five Matches): W–W–W–L-D

Al Ahly enters this match in fine form, having secured a 2-0 victory over El Gouna in the Egyptian Premier League on Wednesday. Star man Emam Ashour scored both goals, showcasing his importance to the team.

The Red Devils are unbeaten in their last three matches across all competitions, scoring seven goals and conceding just two in the process.

Home Fortress

Under Marcel Koller, Al Ahly have been formidable at home, remaining undefeated across all competitions this season.

Of the matches that they have played at home, Ahly have scored 23 goals and only conceded 6 times. And in the Champions League its 10 goals scored and only 3 goals conceded in the matches against Stade d’Abidjan (4-2) and CR Belouizdad (6-1).

Stats Corner

• Chance Creation (1st): Al Ahly lead the competition, creating 10.8 chances per game.

• Expected Goals (2nd): They boast an impressive xG of 1.69, trailing only ES Tunis (1.72). Orlando Pirates are third with 1.33.

• Shots (1st): Al Ahly average 14 shots per game, the highest in the tournament, nearly double the total of 16th-placed FC Rabat (7.8). Pirates rank 6th.

• Shots on Target: Ahly top this category too, averaging 6.8 shots on target per match, compared to Pirates’ 4.4 (3rd place).

• Key Contributors: Emam Ashour and Wessam Abou Ali account for 50% of Al Ahly’s shots, with Ashour averaging 4 shots per game and Ali 3.5.

Key Players

Emam Ashour

The 26-year-old attacking midfielder is Al Ahly’s talisman. Despite disciplinary issues earlier this season that led to his suspension, Ashour has rebounded spectacularly. He’s the creative heartbeat of the team, contributing four goals in the CAF Champions League and 12 goal involvements across 16 matches in all competitions.

Marwan Attia

If Ashour is the heart of Al Ahly, Marwan Attia is the brain. At 26, the midfield maestro exhibits a level of composure reminiscent of a young Luka Modrić. Capable of orchestrating play from deep, dribbling past opponents, or scoring key goals, Attia is a complete package.

His passing numbers underline his importance, ranking second among midfielders in the tournament with 62 completed passes per match, just behind Sundowns’ Teboho Mokoena (64).

With so much at stake, this promises to be a thrilling contest. Al Ahly will look to leverage their home advantage and attacking firepower, while Orlando Pirates aim to cement their dominance atop Group C. The tactical battle on Saturday will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of both teams’ campaigns in the CAF Champions League.

Supporters are encouraged to purchase their tickets on time to avoid any disappointment.

Ticket Information:

General Stand Tickets are available at TicketPro outlets nationwide. Prices start at just R100.

Hospitality Packages:

Take your match-day experience to the next level with exclusive hospitality tickets available from SAIL:

• Standard Hospitality: R3,495
• Premium Hospitality: R4,250
• VVIP Experience: R8,250

For more information on hospitality packages, email bookings@sail.co.za or call 082 805 3150.

This is after producing another clinical performance at home, completing a result identical to the one earned in Algiers in the away leg. While sealing their spot in the quarterfinals, it banishes the visitors to a group-stage finish with one fixture left to play for each side.

What was a high-stakes encounter between two Group C rivals hopeful of progressing to the last eight failed to produce fireworks in the initial stages, with both teams opting for caution early on. The home side did manage to control matters from the onset, but it was the Algerians who conjured up the game’s first real shot in anger 16 minutes in. The chance was sparked by Khanyisa Mayo who did not get the necessary connection to direct his effort on target.

The game was jolted into life in the 20th minute, following a wayward pass deep inside Belouizdad territory, which handed Bucs striker Tshegofatso Mabasa a chance to get a shot away. His attempt met a deflection on its way to goalkeeper Moustafa Zeghba, but the shot stopper could only parry the ball onto the path of Relebohile Mofokeng who was left to complete a tap-in to put his side ahead.

The Buccaneers’ lead could have been short-lived though, if not for a misdirected shot from  Abderrahmane Meziane in the 27th minute. The striker found a way past the defence, beating Sipho Chaine, only to place his shot on the wrong side of the upright.

A chance to double the lead was presented to the home side late in the first half, but Mabasa failed to connect with a lovely through-ball sent in his direction by Patrick Maswanganyi. This meant that only a solitary goal separated the two sides as they headed into the tunnel.

In trying to restore parity, The Reds had an opportunity early after the restart when Mayo unselfishly laid one for his skipper, Islam Slimani. The former Leicester City forward however fluffed his lines as he sent his shot into the stands instead.

The missed opportunity came to haunt the visitors after the hour mark when Thalente Mbatha doubled the lead. The midfielder was left unmarked in enough space to free up one of his trademark shots from range and found the target with a firmly-struck effort which bounced off the inside of the crossbar into the net.

He had another chance moments later, misdirecting his attempt at extending the lead further. Belouizdad meanwhile looked to pull one back and could have done so in the 76th minute when replacement striker Mohamed Belkhir fired at the Pirates goal from close range, but only succeeded in sending his shot wide.

The Algerians continued to seek a way back into the contest, with Chaine forced into some desperate saves late on. They eventually reduced their deficit in injury time when Abdelraouf Benguit found a way past the Bucs shot-stopper with the help of a deflection inside the box.

The goal set up a tense finish, but time was on the hosts’ side as they looked to see out the contest. The final whistle sounded eventually, confirming the Buccaneers’ spot in the knockouts of the continents’ most prestigious club competition for the first time in over a decade.

Pirates XI: Chaine, Sesane, Sibisi, Van Rooyen, Hotto, Mbatha (Dlamini 84’) , Makhaula, Maswanganyi, Nkota (Mako 63’),  Mofokeng (Lebitso 84’), Mabasa (Makgopa 63’).

The medical team has confirmed the following:

Goodman Mosele
Has started training fully with the team however, he still needs to undergo one last examination by a specialist before he is given the green light to be available for selection.

Zakhele Lepasa
Is progressing well as he continues to undergo rehab. He has started field-based running as they gradually increase the load.

Olisa Ndah
Has been given the green light to start field-based training which will also involve conditioning as he gets closer to full recovery.

Thabiso Monyane
Has suffered a hamstring tear in the league match against Cape Town City. He has been ruled out of competition for up to four weeks.

After a lengthy festive season break, it’s now back to the serious business of competitive football. The action resumes with the young Buccaneers in search of some consistency while their opponents look to strengthen their standing among the early-season title contenders.

Form Guide

Twelve matches into the campaign, the Bucs Reserves find themselves some distance away from the pacesetters, sitting in eighth place. This is after stuttering along throughout the season, collecting a disappointing 19 points out of a possible 36 with only five wins in the bag.

Their last outing before the break produced yet another unsatisfactory result as they came second best in the Soweto Derby clash against rivals Kaizer Chiefs. That particular outcome made it two games without a win, also restricting them to just seven points in their last five fixtures.

Having recharged during the hiatus, the Soweto Giants now look to begin their ascent up the table with the Brazilians first up in the new year.

It’s no easy assignment with the Tshwane outfit among the in-form teams in the Reserve League after finishing the previous year in second place in the standings, going unbeaten in their last nine games. They now find themselves lower down in fourth place ahead of their showdown with the Buccaneers, courtesy of the weekend’s earlier results.

That is nonetheless only a slight setback as they could finish the weekend right at the summit should they claim maximum points against a Bucs side also determined to clinch a victory that could push them a spot up the standings.

Head-to-Head

Last season saw the two sides pick up a win apiece in their two league fixtures, and it was the Buccaneers who drew first blood. A brace from Mohau Nkota, along with goals from Lulama Nxumalo and Mpumelelo Ndaba gave them a 4-1 win at home, but they could not replicate that performance on the road as the Brazilians claimed a dramatic 1-0 victory.

All of the last eight clashes between the two rivals have produced a winner, with the home side emerging victorious in each of the last four. Sundowns were the last to win away from home – albeit in the Diski Shield back in July 2022 – while Pirates still boast the last away win in the DDC.

Overall, the Tshwane outfit has edged things in terms of head-to-head results, winning five times during this period, with their Soweto counterparts currently sitting on three wins.

How to Follow Orlando Pirates Reserves vs Mamelodi Sundowns Reserves

The match kicks off at 10:00 and will not be televised. Live updates will be posted across Orlando Pirates social media channels.

Entry at the match venue is free.

The challenge, however, is that only two teams can advance. The Algerian giants come into this match seeking three crucial points. However, a draw might also suffice depending on results elsewhere, with the Buccaneers facing Al Ahly and Belouizdad set to meet the already eliminated Stade d’Abidjan. As always, Orlandopiratesfc.com provides a tactical analysis of this crucial match.

Current Form (Last Five Matches): W – L – W – W – W – W

The last time we analysed CR Belouizdad, the club was in turmoil. Coaching changes and struggles for consistency saw them flirting with the relegation zone in the Algerian Ligue 1. Now, “The Reds,” as they are affectionately known, seem to have turned a corner impressively.

Currently ninth in the Algerian Ligue 1 table with 19 points, they have three games in hand over league leaders JS Kabylie, who sit on 24 points. Their resurgence extends to the CAF Champions League as well. Following a humiliating 6-1 defeat to Al Ahly, the Algerians bounced back with a 1-0 win in the reverse fixture, keeping their hopes alive. In their last five matches, they’ve registered four wins, signalling a team in form.

To Attack or Defend: The Tactical Dilemma

When CR Belouizdad faced Al Ahly in their return leg, their intentions were clear from the first whistle: attack at all costs. The Algerians adopted an aggressive, high-pressing strategy, seeking nothing less than victory.

Against Orlando Pirates, their approach will likely dictate their setup. If they adopt an attacking mindset, Pirates can expect a repeat of the second half of their earlier 2-1 win over Belouizdad. This approach featured relentless pressing, early crosses, and quick throw-ins aimed at unsettling the opposition before they could regroup. Players such as Khanyiso Mayo and Abderrahmane Meziane (as well as the two full backs) will be central to this strategy.

Conversely, a more conservative approach might see the midfield pairing of Housseyn Selmi and Abdelraouf Benguit anchoring the side. Their roles would focus on breaking up play and maintaining possession. This defensive setup often slows the game’s tempo, with Belouizdad excelling in disrupting their opponents’ rhythm.

What Do the Numbers Say?

CR Belouizdad are the undisputed crossing specialists of the competition. Ranking second overall for total crosses, they delivered an astonishing 30+ crosses in their first clash against the Buccaneers and average 23.75 crosses per game.

For context, Orlando Pirates rank 16th with an average of only 7 crosses per game. Al Hilal of Sudan (log leaders of Group A) rank 15th with 8 crosses per game while Sundowns rank 14th with 9 crosses per game. This speaks to the contrasting styles of these two teams.

For open-play crosses, Belouizdad leads the pack with an average of 18.75 per match. Key contributors include:

Houcine Benayada: The right-back ranks first in the competition for open-play crosses, averaging five per game. Left-back Naoufel Khacef, ranks fourth overall, Khacef contributes 4.2 open-play crosses per match.

Key Players

Aymen Mahious: Ranking fourth in shots per game (3.75), Mahious poses a consistent goal threat.
Khanyiso Mayo: The South African forward ranks second among Belouizdad players and 13th overall with 2.35 shots per game.
Abderrahmane Meziane: The creative lynchpin, Meziane leads the competition in intentional assists with a rating of 0.78. The closest player to him is Ramadam Sobhi of Pyramids who sits on 0.62. Pirates’ highest-ranking player is Relebohile Mofokeng who is ranked ninth place.

Conclusion

Khanyiso Mayo and Abderrahmane Meziane represent the dual threat of goals and creativity for CR Belouizdad. Mayo’s recent rise to prominence underscores his growing importance, while Meziane’s ability to conjure chances from seemingly nothing makes him a constant headache for defences. With so much on the line, the tactical battle between Orlando Pirates and CR Belouizdad promises to be a fascinating clash. Whether “The Reds” opt for attack or a more measured approach, we will see on Sunday.

The match will be played at the Mecca of South African football – the Orlando Stadium. Kick off is 15h00.

A third straight title will be at stake for the Soweto Giants as they look to replicate the feat of the all-conquering team that donned the famous black and white from 1973 to 1975. That legendary outfit remains the only team to successfully defend the national cup title twice in a row and history now beckons for the Class of 2025 whose quest has been set out.

With the Natal Rich Boyz first up on the card, the two teams are set for their first-ever clash in the Nedbank Cup. However, the match will be somewhat of a grudge match following the Buccaneers’ early exit from the 2023/24 Carling Knockout in their only cup encounter to date.

For the men from KwaZulu-Natal, the fixture is an opportunity to underline their status as giant killers, having also claimed the scalp of Pirates’ Soweto rivals Kaizer Chiefs at a similar stage in the 2021 edition. They have since failed to advance past the opening round in each of the three subsequent tournaments, and will be determined to turn the tide by ending the back-to-back title holders’ reign.

The 2024/25 Nedbank Cup is scheduled to begin later this month, with fixture dates, venues, kick-off times set to be confirmed in the coming weeks.