Orlando Pirates concluded their European pre-season training camp in Marbella, Spain, with a hard-fought 1–0 loss against Saudi Arabian outfit NEOM SC at the Estepona Football Center on Friday evening.
A sublime first-half set-piece from Algerian international Saïd Benrahma proved to be the decisive goal, handing the Saudi Pro League newcomers a narrow victory. The result marked the Sea Robbers’ second loss to Saudi opposition during their Spanish tour, following a 3–2 defeat against Al-Ittihad earlier in the week.
Benrahma Strike Decides Tightly Fought Encounter
Both sides set a high tempo from kickoff, competing fiercely for control in the central third. While the Buccaneers displayed calm and controlled build-up play, breaking down a compact NEOM defensive unit proved challenging.
- The Goal (31′): The breakthrough arrived just past the half-hour mark when Benrahma curled an exquisite free-kick past Sipho Chaine at the near post.
- Bucs Response: Thalente Mbatha nearly equalized before the break with a powerful long-range drive, followed by an Oswin Appollis effort inside the box that forced a sharp save from the NEOM keeper.
Second-Half Push Falls Short
Head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou made tactical rotations in the second half to inject fresh momentum. Striker Boitumelo Radiopane found himself in a goalmouth scramble but couldn’t direct his effort on target, while a late attempt from distance by Abdoulaye Mariko drifted wide.
Despite maintaining significant spells of second-half possession, the reigning PSL champions were unable to unlock NEOM’s backline before the final whistle.
Focus Shifts to Domestic Opener
With their European tour now wrapped up, the Buccaneers return home to South Africa to finalize preparations for their 2026/27 Betway Premiership title defence.
Amakhosi’s Soweto rivals and other contenders will be watching closely as Pirates open their league campaign at home against top-flight newcomers Milford FC at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday, 1 August 2026 (15:00 CAT).
