Orlando Pirates have made six changes to their starting XI for the decisive CAF Champions League preliminary-round second leg against La Cure Waves at the Orlando Amstel Arena.
The Buccaneers welcome the Mauritian champions to Soweto at 15:00 on Saturday, 12 September 2026, with the tie finely balanced after a 0-0 draw in the first leg.
Pirates dominated much of the opening encounter but were unable to turn their chances into goals, leaving everything to be decided on home soil.
Six Changes for the Buccaneers
Head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has opted for a significantly altered lineup as Pirates look to secure their place in the next round.
Deon Hotto, Cristian Derbyshire, Simphiwe Selepe, Cemran Dansin, Daniel Msendami and Boitumelo Radiopane drop out of the starting XI.
They make way for Neo Rapoo, Thapelo Makobodi, Simphiwe Masilela, Kabelo Kgositsile and Yanela Mbuthuma, with the changes giving several players an opportunity to make an impact in a crucial continental fixture.
Orlando Pirates Starting XI
Sipho Chaine; Kamogelo Sebelebele, Lebone Seema, Zulu, Neo Rapoo; Mthiyane, Thapelo Makobodi, Simphiwe Masilela, Kabelo Kgositsile; Oswin Appollis, Yanela Mbuthuma.
Substitutes: Dladla, Sibisi, Ndaba, Cristian Derbyshire, Cemran Dansin, Simphiwe Selepe, Nemtajela, Ngwato, Boitumelo Radiopane.
Pirates Under Pressure to Deliver
The pressure is firmly on the Buccaneers to avoid another disappointing early exit from continental competition.
Despite the goalless first-leg result, Pirates remain favourites on paper and will now have home advantage behind them.
However, injuries have limited their options, with Mohau Nkota, Ghampani Lungu, Evidence Makgopa and Thalente Mbatha unavailable for the clash.
Ouaddou will therefore need his available players to step up when it matters most.
La Cure Waves Dream of an Upset
La Cure Waves arrive in Soweto with belief after frustrating Pirates in the first leg.
Coach Jerome Thomas will know his team face a difficult challenge, but the Mauritian side have already demonstrated that they can make life uncomfortable for the South African champions.
Another disciplined defensive display, combined with a clinical moment in attack, could put Pirates in serious danger.
Everything to Play For
With the first leg ending 0-0, the second leg represents a straight fight for progression.
Pirates will be desperate to find the breakthrough early, while La Cure Waves will be hoping to withstand the pressure and create a historic upset.
Will Orlando Pirates make their home advantage count and book their place in the next round of the CAF Champions League?
