Thapelo Mokobodi has been a trusted figure in the midfield for coach Abdeslam Ouaddou but the Moroccan will have to find ways to tighten things as they start theri 2026 CAF Champions League journey with injuries to Thalente Mbatha and Sihle Nduli.
Orlando Pirates are exactly where they want to be this season: at the top of the Betway Premiership and in the MTN8 final, where they will face arch-rivals Mamelodi Sundowns.
Their impressive start has been inspired by a clinical attacking unit and a solid defence, having scored 16 goals while conceding just twice across all seven matches.
After breezing to a 4-0 win over Kruger United in their last league match, it is evident that this Pirates side will be difficult to stop. Consequently, their CAF Champions League first-leg preliminary round opponents, La Cure Sylvester, should be wary of the threat they will face away on Sunday.
However, Pirates are far from a well-oiled machine. They remain vulnerable in defence and lack cohesion in the midfield. Had Kruger been more clinical late in the first half, they could have punished Pirates on multiple occasions.
