Orlando Pirates will be aiming to book their place in the Carling Knockout Cup semi-finals when they welcome Sekhukhune United to the Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday afternoon.
The Buccaneers head into the quarter-final with confidence after beating Babina Noko in all three of their meetings this season. However, coach Abdeslam Ouaddou knows that previous results will count for little when the two sides meet in a knockout encounter.
Pirates are also determined to return to winning ways after their disappointment in the MTN8 final. With another opportunity to secure silverware in front of their home supporters, the Soweto giants will be eager to keep their Carling Knockout Cup title defence on track.
A victory would take Pirates into the semi-finals, where they could potentially face either Kaizer Chiefs or Mamelodi Sundowns.
How Orlando Pirates could line up against Sekhukhune
Sipho Chaine is expected to continue as the Buccaneers’ first-choice goalkeeper, with Lebone Seema and Nkosinathi Sibisi tipped to form the central defensive partnership.
Kamogelo Sebelebele is unavailable, which could see Bulelani Sigomoshe retain the right-back position. Deon Hotto is expected to operate on the opposite side of the defence.
In midfield, Thalente Mbatha could partner Thapelo Mokobodi, while Simphiwe Masilela is tipped to take up an attacking midfield role.
Further forward, Yanela Mbuthuma could lead the attack, supported by Ghampani Lungu and Tshepang Moremi as Pirates look to find the goals needed to reach the last four.
Ouaddou has enjoyed considerable success since taking charge of the Buccaneers, reaching four finals and winning three trophies. He will now be hoping to guide the club towards another final and defend the Carling Knockout Cup title.
Predicted Orlando Pirates starting XI
Goalkeeper: Sipho Chaine
Defenders: Bulelani Sigomoshe, Lebone Seema, Nkosinathi Sibisi and Deon Hotto
Midfielders: Thalente Mbatha, Thapelo Mokobodi and Simphiwe Masilela
Forwards: Ghampani Lungu, Tshepang Moremi and Yanela Mbuthuma
This is a predicted line-up, not the officially confirmed starting XI. The final team selection will be announced before kick-off.
Can Orlando Pirates reach the semi-finals?
Pirates will have home advantage and a strong recent record against Sekhukhune United, but cup football can produce unexpected results.
Ouaddou’s side will need to deliver another disciplined performance if they are to move one step closer to defending their Carling Knockout Cup crown.
The Buccaneers’ supporters will be hoping their team gets the job done and keeps its trophy ambitions alive.
