Orlando Pirates will take on an in-form Polokwane City side in Tuesday’s Betway Premiership match at the historic Orlando Stadium in Soweto.
The Buccaneers had to fight hard to secure a narrow 1-0 victory over Botswana’s Jwaneng Galaxy in the second leg of the Caf Champions League preliminary round, which took place in Soweto on Saturday. This win extended Pirates’ unbeaten streak to 10 matches across all competitions, following their last league defeat to TS Galaxy in May. During this run, they have recorded six victories and four draws.
On the other hand, Polokwane City showcased their strength with a convincing 2-0 victory over Magesi FC in the Limpopo Derby on Saturday. They remain unbeaten in their last eight matches across all competitions, including last month’s MTN8 clash against Mamelodi Sundowns, with a record of four wins and four draws.
Currently, Polokwane City sits second in the Betway Premiership standings with six points from two matches, while Orlando Pirates occupies the fifth spot with three points from their opening league game of the season.
Pirates have no players suspended, but Zakhele Lepasa and Goodman Mosele are sidelined due to injuries. In contrast, Polokwane City is also free from suspension concerns and has not reported any injuries within their squad.
Bucs coach Riveiro said after the 1-0 win over Jwaneng Galaxy: “We have an interesting group there. Group of young and talented players – a bunch of winners.
“They want to continue improving and winning, and again having the continuity to play in this type of tournament – the African Champions League.
“An interesting tournament against quality opponents and tough games, so every pinch of experience will come and our players going to the national team, playing in Afcon.
“It’s something that we can always capitalise on as a club, and as a group. The talent is there; the quality is there. We only need to keep going and accumulate experiences together and the future will be fine.”