Orlando Pirates return to Betway Premiership action on Thursday evening when they welcome Durban City, just days after securing their place in the next round of the CAF Champions League.
The defending league champions will be looking to carry their continental momentum into domestic competition when the two sides meet on Thursday, 17 September, with kick-off scheduled for 19:30.
Pirates come into the fixture after recovering from an early setback to beat Mauritian side La Cure Waves FC 3-1 and progress in Africa.
Now, attention turns back to the league — and coach Abdeslam Ouaddou could make a few changes to his starting XI.
Predicted Orlando Pirates XI vs Durban City
Based on the team used in their recent Champions League fixture and the need to manage the squad across competitions, Pirates could line up as follows:
Chaine; Sebelebele, Seema, Zulu, Ndaba; Mthiyane, Dansin; Kgositsile, Selepe, Appollis; Mbuthuma.
Goalkeeper Sipho Chaine is expected to retain his place, with Kabelo Sebelebele, Nkosinathi Zulu and Paseka Seema among the defensive options.
In midfield, Mthiyane and Dansin could form the central partnership, while Kabelo Kgositsile, Selaelo Selepe and Oswin Appollis provide the attacking threat behind the striker.
Mbuthuma in form for Pirates
One player likely to attract plenty of attention is Yanela Mbuthuma.
The 24-year-old striker has found the net in each of his last three appearances and was also on target against La Cure Waves.
Mbuthuma scored Pirates’ third goal in their 3-1 Champions League victory, completing a comeback after the visitors had taken an early lead.
His recent scoring form could see him keep his place ahead of Boitumelo Radiopane as Pirates look for another positive result.
How Pirates lined up against La Cure Waves
Pirates’ most recent starting XI featured:
Chaine; Sebelebele, Seema, Zulu, Rapoo; Mthiyane, Mokobodi; Kgositsile, Masilela, Appollis; Mbuthuma.
The potential inclusion of Ndaba, Dansin and Selepe would provide some rotation as Pirates balance their domestic and continental commitments.
The changes could also give several players an opportunity to impress as the Buccaneers navigate a busy period.
Durban City could make life difficult
Durban City should not be underestimated.
The visitors have drawn three of their opening five league matches, highlighting their ability to make games difficult for opponents.
Pirates, meanwhile, will be expected to control the contest at home and make their superior squad depth count.
The Buccaneers have also started the season with games in hand, meaning a strong run of results could quickly change the picture near the top of the table.
Pirates chasing Sundowns
Mamelodi Sundowns currently lead the Betway Premiership standings with 20 points from eight matches.
Pirates are second on 13 points, but have played three fewer matches than the defending African champions.
AmaZulu are also on 13 points after six matches and occupy third place, while Kaizer Chiefs sit fourth with 12 points from six games.
That makes Thursday’s fixture particularly important for Pirates as they look to close the gap at the top while making use of their games in hand.
Our Orlando Pirates vs Durban City prediction
Pirates arrive with confidence after their Champions League victory, while Mbuthuma’s goalscoring form provides another reason for optimism ahead of the fixture.
Durban City have shown they can frustrate opponents, but playing at home gives Pirates an opportunity to impose themselves from the outset.
Prediction: Orlando Pirates 2-0 Durban City.
The Buccaneers will now be hoping to turn their continental momentum into three valuable Betway Premiership points.
