Orlando Pirates are heading to America to play for R17 million

Orlando Pirates have confirmed they will participate in The Soccer Tournament (TST), a lucrative seven-a-side competition held in Cary, North Carolina, from May 27 to June 1.

Orlando Pirates are heading to America

The Sea Robbers join LaLiga side Villarreal and Spanish Liga MX giants Club America in the 48-team event, which takes on a winner-takes-all format. The eventual champions will scoop $1 million (R16.77 million).

Via the Pirates official website, Marketing Manager Sindi Sibisi had more to say about the club’s motivation behind being involved:

“For Orlando Pirates, participation in TST represents far more than just a football tournament,

It provides the club with an opportunity to showcase the Buccaneers brand on a global stage, engage with new audiences and supporters across the world, and further cement its ambition of expanding the reach of the club beyond the African continent.”

Pirates gun for domestic glory

An upcoming run of fixtures against mostly mid-table opposition could be a godsend for the Buccaneers, as none of these sides is in immediate danger of relegation, and similarly, they aren’t pushing for places in the top three. Strangely, their most difficult remaining match could be against Magesi, who might still have safety to play for by early May. A final-day clash against Orbit should be a routine win, as they should already be relegated by then. Back to the present, and Pirates maintained their solid momentum with a workmanlike 2-0 win over Richards Bay, thanks to goals from Oswin Appollis and Evidence Makgopa.