JOHANNESBURG — The wait is finally over for the Ghost. Orlando Pirates have officially confirmed that supporters across the globe will be able to watch the club’s opening European pre-season friendly live from Spain on Wednesday evening.
The reigning MTN8 and Carling Knockout champions are currently fine-tuning their engines at a high-intensity training camp in Marbella, Spain. They are scheduled to lock horns with Spanish side Córdoba CF at the Marbella Football Center.
The match serves as the ultimate launching pad for what promises to be a grueling 2026/27 campaign. The Buccaneers are set to defend their domestic cup double, challenge for the Betway Premiership, and make a highly anticipated return to the CAF Champions League.
Kick-Off Time & Where to Watch
Fans won’t have to miss a single second of the action. The club has announced a free, accessible global broadcast:
- Match: Orlando Pirates vs. Córdoba CF
- Date: Wednesday, 15 July 2026
- Kick-Off Time: 19:00 (South African Standard Time – SAST)
- Live Stream Platform: Pirates TV on YouTube
- Alternative Coverage: Real-time text and media updates across all official Orlando Pirates social media feeds.
The Dawn of the Abdeslam Ouaddou Era
This friendly marks the highly anticipated debut of new head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou on the touchline. The Moroccan tactician will use this European tour to lay down his tactical blueprint, build match fitness, and integrate the club’s massive crop of new talent.
With seven new signings traveling with the squad, the clash against Córdoba offers a fascinating first look at who might break into the starting XI:
| Player | Position | Signed From | Status for 2026/27 |
| Mthetheleli Mthiyane | Midfielder | Stellenbosch FC | Squad Member |
| Neo Rapoo | Left Wing-Back | Siwelele FC | Squad Member |
| Matome Mmolai | Midfielder | Leicesterford City | Squad Member |
| Ghampani Lungu | Forward | Siwelele FC | Squad Member |
| Bohlale Ngwato | Forward | Siwelele FC | Squad Member |
| Sbangani Zulu | Defender | Richards Bay | Squad Member |
| Aphiwe Baliti | Left Wing-Back | Siwelele FC | Out on Loan |
While physical conditioning remains the primary goal of the Spanish camp, the Sea Robbers will want to start their pre-season on a winning note, giving fans an early taste of what to expect in the Betway Premiership come opening day.
