Banana Peel Alert: Ouaddou Fields Strong Pirates XI to Avoid Milford Cup Upset
Abdeslam Ouaddou is taking no chances. Orlando Pirates have named a full-strength side for tonight’s Carling Knockout Cup Last 16 clash with Milford FC, and the message is clear: no slip-ups.
The Buccaneers arrive in high spirits after dismantling African Stars 5-0 on aggregate to reach the CAF Champions League group stage. But cup football is cruel, and giants have tripped over smaller sides before. Ouaddou knows it.
After rotating against African Stars, resting Nkosinathi Sibisi and benching Yanela Mbuthuma, the coach has gone strong again. Sipho Chaine starts in goal, with Deon Hotto, Lebone Seema, Sbangani Zulu and Blelani Sigomoshe in front of him.
In midfield, Thalente Mbatha, Simphiwe Selepe and Thapelo Mokobodi will control midfield while Gamphani Lungu, Tsepang Moremi and Evidence Makgopa lead the attack.
Pirates will want to put their MTN8 final defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns behind them, and this competition offers another shot at silverware, with close to R7 million awaiting the eventual champions.
The Soweto Derby looms on Saturday, but Ouaddou cannot afford to look past Milford. One banana peel, and the dream is over.
Pirates XI: Chaine, Hotto, Seema, Zulu, Sigomoshe, Mbatha, Selepe, Mokobodi, Lungu, Moremi, Makgopa
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