New-Look Buccaneers: Three Debutants Named in Orlando Pirates XI to Face Córdoba CF

The rebuilding phase has officially shifted from the training ground to the pitch. As Orlando Pirates kick off their highly anticipated pre-season tour of Spain, head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has named a bold, experimental starting line-up to face Spanish Segunda División outfit Córdoba CF at the Marbella Football Center.

Unveiling a fresh strategic layout, Ouaddou’s starting XI features three debutants eager to make their mark in the iconic black and white.

Key Debutants and Squad Breakdown

• Sbangani Zulu (Central Defender): The rock signed from Richards Bay gets an immediate nod in central defense to anchor the backline.
• Ghampani Lungu (Winger): The explosive attacker brought in from Siwelele FC starts on the wing, offering raw pace and width.
• Mpho Padime (Midfielder): A massive moment for the youth academy graduate, who is promoted from the reserve ranks straight into the senior starting lineup.

Orlando Pirates Starting Line-up vs. Córdoba CF:

Starting XI: Siyabonga Dladla (GK), Mpho Chabatsane, Sbangani Zulu, Deano Van Rooyen, Nkosikhona Ndaba, Simphiwe Selepe, Abdulaye Mariko, Patrick Maswanganyi, Mpho Padime, Ghampani Lungu, Yanela Mbuthuma.

Substitutes: Sipho Chaine (GK), Tapelo Xoki, Cristian Derbyshire, Neo Rapoo, Kamohelo Sebelebele, Mthetheleli Mthiyane, Simphiwe Masilela, Cemran Dansin, Tshepang Moremi, Bohlale Ngwato, Boitumelo Radiopane.

The Road Ahead: Spain Pre-Season Schedule

This fixture marks the first of five grueling, high-profile friendlies scheduled to prepare the defending treble-winners for their league defense and return to the CAF Champions League.