Fresh off a thrilling 3-2 pre-season clash against Saudi Arabian giants Al-Ittihad, Orlando Pirates are putting the final touches on their Spanish training camp as they prepare to face La Liga outfit UD Las Palmas in Marbella.
With an impressive pre-season record of one win, one draw, and one defeat across three matches in Spain, head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has actively tested his tactical options, integrating high-profile summer signings with promising DStv Diski Challenge academy graduates.
Key Areas Under Scrutiny
With less than two weeks remaining before the defending champions launch their 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign, Ouaddou is eager to solidify his preferred hierarchy while addressing persistent defensive and attacking vulnerabilities:
- Defensive Stability: Captain Nkosinathi Sibisi and the backline faced moments of pressure against Al-Ittihad’s high-value front three. Tactical discipline in central defense remains a priority area before the transfer window closes.
- Attacking Efficiency: While Yanela Mbuthuma found the back of the net against Al-Ittihad, consistency up front remains under review as Evidence Makgopa continues to fight for match fitness.
Predicted Orlando Pirates XI vs Las Palmas
To manage player workload in back-to-back pre-season fixtures, Ouaddou is expected to shuffle his starting lineup:
Sipho Chaine (GK)
Sebelebele Sibisi (C) Seema Hotto
Nduli Mbatha
Appollis Maswanganyi Ngwato
Mbuthuma
- Goalkeeper: Sipho Chaine
- Defenders: Kamogelo Sebelebele, Nkosinathi Sibisi (C), Lebone Seema, Deon Hotto
- Midfielders: Sihle Nduli, Thalente Mbatha
- Attacking Midfielders: Oswin Appollis, Patrick Maswanganyi, Bohlale Ngwato
- Forward: Yanela Mbuthuma
