Orlando Pirates have landed in the Democratic Republic of Congo, gearing
up for a crucial CAF Champions League Second Preliminary Round first-leg
clash against Saint-Éloi Lupopo this afternoon. The Buccaneers will face the
Congolese outfit at the Stade Frédéric Kibassa Maliba in Lubumbashi, aiming
to take a decisive step towards the group stages of Africa’s premier club
competition.
Pirates enter the fixture with momentum, having sealed their place in this
round with an emphatic 7-0 aggregate victory over Lioli FC of Lesotho.
Boost from Bafana Contingent
The squad has been significantly bolstered by the return of several key
players from international duty with Bafana Bafana. Defenders Nkosinathi
Sibisi and Mbekezeli Mbokazi, midfielders Thalente Mbatha and Sipho Mbule,
and striker Evidence Makgopa all rejoin the camp riding high on confidence
after helping South Africa secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World
Cup—a morale boost that will be welcomed by coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.
Pirates’ Blueprint: Composure and Control
Navigating an away leg in the intimidating atmosphere of Lubumbashi requires
a disciplined approach. Ouaddou is expected to emphasise control and
tactical structure, with the Buccaneers looking to manage the game’s tempo
and secure a positive result—potentially with a valuable away goal—to bring
back to Soweto for the return leg.
In attack, Evidence Makgopa’s aerial presence and current form make him a
strong candidate to lead the line, supported by the creative flair of
Patrick Maswanganyi, Oswin Appollis, and the dynamic Relebohile Mofokeng. At
the back, the return of Nkosinathi Sibisi adds vital steel and leadership to
organise the defence.
The Lupopo Threat
Saint-Éloi Lupopo, a top finisher in last season’s Linafoot, will
undoubtedly leverage their home advantage and a passionate local crowd.
Known for a physical style and rapid counter-attacks, the Congolese side
will test the concentration of the Pirates midfield and defence, making it
essential for the visitors to avoid turnovers in dangerous areas.
Predicted Pirates Starting XI:
Sipho Chaine, Siyabonga Ndlozi, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Deon
Hotto, Thalente Mbatha, Sihle Nduli, Relebohile Mofokeng, Patrick
Maswanganyi, Oswin Appollis, Evidence Makgopa.
Image: Orlando Pirates players during a training session.
