The defending champions are officially off the mark! Orlando Pirates began their 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign exactly how they intended—with three points and a clean sheet.
Playing in front of a roaring home crowd at the Orlando Amstel Arena, the Buccaneers dispatched top-flight newcomers Milford FC 2-0 on Saturday afternoon, proving they are ready to fight for their crown.
Dynamic attacker Oswin Appollis opened his account early, breaking the deadlock in the 24th minute to give Pirates a well-deserved lead heading into halftime. Milford FC showed resilience and held firm for much of the second half, but Tshepang Moremi finally sealed the deal, burying a late strike in the 85th minute to guarantee the victory.
Around the Grounds: 15:00 Kick-off Results
While the Sea Robbers were securing their victory in Soweto, two other Betway Premiership clashes took place:
- AmaZulu FC 1-0 Stellenbosch FC: Usuthu secured a hard-fought opening-day victory at home.
- Golden Arrows 0-0 Chippa United: A tight, goalless stalemate saw both sides share the spoils.
Official Matchday Line-ups
Orlando Pirates
- Starting XI: Chaine, Sebelebele, Sibisi, Seema, Hotto, Dansin, Mbatha, Appollis, Maswanganyi, Moremi, Mbuthuma.
- Substitutes: Dladla, Kgositsile, Masilela, Zulu, Mariko, Mthiyane, Radiopane, Lungu, Rapoo.
Milford FC
- Starting XI: Hleza (C), Bhengu, Mthabela, Cele, Mdluli, Mthethwa, Mthiyane, Chili, Mabena, Zikakayo, Radebe.
- Substitutes: Nkosi, Ngxongo, Mbhele, Siyaya, Mkhize, Nomandela, Mbunga, Jwara, Masilela.
