Pirates back in league action — four still out, two on late tests
Orlando Pirates return to Betway Premiership action tonight after two weeks of CAF Champions League football.
And the assignment is familiar: Durban City at the Orlando Amstel Arena. The game starts at 7.30pm.
“The defending Betway Premiership champions host Durban City at the Amstel Arena this evening as they look to keep pace with early pacesetters Mamelodi Sundowns, who have collected 20 points from their opening eight matches,” the club said.
Pirates sit second on 13 points from five games. That three-match gap on the calendar is why every home night matters.
“The Buccaneers are second on the table with 13 points from five matches and have an opportunity to close the gap on the Tshwane-based side.”
Abdeslam Ouaddou’s team have been ruthless in the league — four wins, one draw, 12 goals scored, one conceded.
City are ninth on six points and have already frustrated Pirates last season: a 0-0 at Orlando Amstel Arena in May after a 2-0 Buccaneers win in Durban last November.
Pirates also needed extra time and a Gamphani Lungu volley to dump City from the MTN8 in August.
But the injury list still bites for the Buccaneers. “Thalente Mbatha, Evidence Makgopa, Sihle Nduli and Mohau Nkota remain unavailable for selection as they continue their recovery from their respective injuries,” the club confirmed.
There are some positive news though. “Gamphani Lungu and Andre de Jong will undergo late fitness tests to determine their availability for the match.”
Pirates have games in hand. Tonight they have to cash one in. But they will have to be at their best against City who can b a stubborn team.
