Orlando Pirates resume their continental campaign this Saturday, hosting Stade d’Abidjan at Orlando Stadium.
Indeed, the Soweto Giants will be looking to start the year right where they left off, having scored nine goals across their final three hours of competitive football in 2024.
Pirates can top Group
The hosts come into the match knowing maximum points will see the top the Group and bring them closer to the next phase. Currently third in the group with five points, the Buccaneers trail leaders Al Ahly by two points.
Their group stage campaign began with one win and two draws in their first three matches. After a 2-1 win over CR Belouizdad (third place), they drew 0-0 with Al Ahly and 1-1 with this weekend’s opponents, Stade d’Abidjan, who sit at the bottom of the group with a single point.
Ahead of the match, coach Riveiro, speaking to FARPost, acknowledged his team’s relative inexperience in the competition while also recognizing the strengths of the Ivorian side. He stated, “I have highlighted many times that we are a very good team but inexperienced in this competition, starting with the coach.
“It’s a new space for us, and we are competing at a really good level. Every game in this competition is an important chapter, especially in our young players’ careers.”
Player Spotlight
Relebohile Mofokeng has been nothing short of a revelation, earning interest from Spanish heavyweights Barcelona. The dangerman has been getting in on the act in the Betway Premiership, but will be looking to turn on the style in the CAF competition to garner further recognition.
On the continental stage, the Pirates academy graduate has delivered two assists from his three appearances. Indeed, he has created six chances for his teammates – the most in the Bucs camp. Furthermore, he has attempted five shots, but is yet to open his account. On home soil, I do fancy his chances!
How to watch
The match is scheduled to kick-off at 18:00 on Saturday, 04 December and will be carried live on the public broadcaster’s radio stations for commentary. The match will be broadcast live on SABC2 and satellite TV giants SuperSport channel 209. Additionally, you can stream the fixture on Showmax and SABC+.
Orlando Stadium
The 40 000 seater stadium will host the clash between Orlando Pirates and Stade d’Abidjan. The Soweto based stadium is expected to be filled to the rafters, as is the case when Pirates take to the pitch. The stadium was refurbished to a state-of-the-art stadium ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup and was used as one of the training venues for the global spectacle.
Betting odds (supplied by Hollywoodbets)
To win (90 min)
Orlando Pirates 2/9 | Draw 4/1 | Stade d’Abidjan 12/1
I expect both teams to come out the blocks firing – which spells goals. I think a 2-1 scoreline is on the cards. Get on at 9/1!