The defense of their historic crown officially begins on European soil. After ending a grueling 14-year wait to lift the Betway Premiership title last season, Orlando Pirates are gearing up for their first pre-season test under newly appointed Moroccan head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou when they clash with Spanish Segunda division outfit Córdoba CF this Wednesday.
The Sea Robbers have officially set up base at their preferred training grounds in Marbella from 12 to 25 July. The high-profile camp features a grueling schedule of five premium friendly matches designed to test the squad’s tactical depth as they prepare to navigate life without departed teenage talisman Relebohile Mofokeng.
The Buccaneers' Five-Match Spanish Tour:
vs Córdoba CF — Wednesday, July 15
vs Cádiz CF
vs Al-Ittihad Club (Saudi Pro League)
vs Neom SC
vs Las Palmas (La Liga)
Spain: The Secret Formula Behind Mayfair’s Silverware
Returning to Europe is no random decision for the Buccaneers board. Marbella has rapidly evolved into the ultimate launchpad for the club’s modern dominance in South African football.
The foundation laid during previous Spanish camps directly propelled the Soweto giants to an astonishing six trophies across the last three seasons—including a historic domestic double consisting of the MTN8 and the Carling Knockout Cup alongside their league crown last term.
Furthermore, historical data shows that Pirates thrive against Spanish opposition, having previously secured famous back-to-back 2-0 victories over La Liga heavyweights Sevilla FC and Granada CF.
Ouaddou Unveils Seven New Reinforcements
Wednesday’s curtain-raiser will hand coach Ouaddou his very first look at a heavily modified squad. The technical team is expected to hand immediate minutes to several of the club’s seven brand-new signings, with particular focus falling on highly anticipated integration points:
- The Fresh Faces: High-profile arrivals Bohlale Ngwato, Ghampani Lungu, and Mthetheleli Mthiyane are all expected to feature heavily.
- The Target: Build high-intensity match fitness and fluid chemistry before flying back to South Africa to open their league title defense against Durban City at Orlando Stadium on August 1.
