Fresh off securing the MTN8 title, Orlando Pirates begin their quest for a second piece of silverware this season as they host Siwelele FC in the Carling Knockout Round of 16 this evening.
The match kicks off at 15:00 at their formidable home ground, Orlando Stadium in Soweto.
Read: Hat-Trick Hero Fezile Gcaba Fires Durban City into Carling Knockout Quarterfinals
The Buccaneers’ Formidable Momentum
Pirates are in sensational form, riding a seven-game winning streak across all competitions. Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou’s philosophy, affectionately dubbed “Terminator Football” by the faithful, has transformed the team into a ruthless winning machine. Crucially, this impressive run includes a recent 1-0 league victory over Siwelele, where Oswin Appollis netted the decisive goal, giving the Sea Robbers a psychological edge going into this cup tie.
With a fully packed Esigodini (Orlando Stadium) expected, there is little doubt that the Ghosts are the overwhelming favorites. The team is determined not to repeat last season’s early cup exit, when they were embarrassingly eliminated from this competition (then the Telkom Knockout) in the Round of 16 by Magesi at the same venue.
A Trophy Long Sought
The Carling Knockout has historically been a challenging tournament for the Buccaneers. They have only lifted this particular trophy once before, in 2011, when it was known as the Telkom Knockout under coach Julio Leal.
New Pirates mentor Ouaddou is eager to make his mark with Ezimnyama Ngenkani, and a deep run, let alone a second trophy, would cement his place in the club’s history and satisfy the club’s long-standing ambition to reclaim this title.
Siwelele’s Challenge and Team News
While Pirates soar, Siwelele FC have struggled significantly this season, recording only two wins, one draw, and six defeats across all competitions. Facing a high-flying Pirates side at their fortress will be an enormous task.
However, the visitors possess players with the quality and experience to cause an upset. Zakhele Lepasa, a player who knows the Sea Robbers well, will be a key figure in trying to breach the Pirates’ defence. He’ll look for support from the dynamic duo of Tebogo Potsane and Vincent Pule.
Pirates: Players to Watch
Under Ouaddou, every Pirates player is a threat, but the team’s balance is particularly striking:
Defence: The foundation of the winning streak is a rock-solid defence that has kept clean sheets in the last seven games. Defenders like Dion Hotto, Lebone Seema, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, and Thabiso Lebitso have created an impenetrable shield for goalkeeper Sipho Chaine.
Midfield: The engine room is packed with talent, including Relebohile Mofokeng, Masindi Nemtajela, Sihle Nduli, Sipho Mbule, Kamogelo Sebelebele, and Tshepang Moremi. Crucially, the bench boasts proven game-changers like Oswin Appollis, who can be relied upon to secure a victory.
Attack: Upfront, the strategy is clear. Evidence Makgopa constantly works to pull defenders out of position, creating space for the clinical finisher Tshegofatso Mabasa, who thrives inside the box. Get the ball into the area, and Mabasa is expected to do the rest.
Match and Venue Information
How to Watch
Detail Information
Kick-off: 15:00 SAST
Venue: Orlando Stadium
TV Channel: SABC1 & DStv channel 202
Digital Viewing: DStv Stream and Showmax
Radio: Selected SABC radio stations will deliver live commentary
Orlando Stadium: The Fortress
Located in the Orlando East township, the 40,000-seater Orlando Stadium was refurbished ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The Buccaneers have recently transformed this historic venue into a genuine fortress, with visiting teams rarely leaving unscathed. The atmosphere is guaranteed to be electric this afternoon as the Sea Robbers return home with their sights set on the next round.
Betting tips
Orlando Pirates 5/10 | Draw 5/2 | Siwelele 11/2
With the fact that they really want to win this trophy and playing at home Ezikamagebhula will win this encounter in 90 minutes and progress to the next round of the tournament.
Pirates are in fine form, and they are a banker here at 5/10.
Wriiten By: Ayanda Vezi