Orlando Pirates’ September test: SIX matches

Orlando Pirates have had a mixed start to the season, two defeats, one draw, and four wins across the MTN8 and Betway Premiership.

Flashes of brilliance have sparked, but so have costly lapses. Now, September will throw six fixtures at the Buccaneers, a stretch that will test their depth, focus, and consistency.

The month opens with the big one: Stellenbosch on 13 September in the MTN8 final. A trophy here could set the tone for the campaign. Just four days later, Orlando Pirates face Magesi at home in league action on 17 September.

ORLANDO PIRATES FIXTURES IN SEPTEMBER

The new CAF Champions League term will begin on 19 September with a trip to the Democratic Republic of Congo to face Lioli in the preliminary round. Then, on 23 September, the team will return to league action away to Siwelele.

The return leg against Lioli comes home on 26 September, and the month wraps up with a tricky league trip to TS Galaxy on 28 September.

Orlando Pirates fixtures in September:

28 Sept – TS Galaxy (away), Betway Premiership
13 Sept – Stellenbosch (home), MTN8 final
17 Sept – Magesi (home), Betway Premiership
19 Sept – Lioli (away), CAF Champions League
23 Sept – Siwelele (away), Betway Premiership
26 Sept – Lioli (home), CAF Champions League.

*Dates are subject to change due to travelling and recovery periods.

For coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, the challenge is clear: manage fatigue, demand consistency, and tighten mental lapses. Orlando Pirates have enough quality to dominate, but September’s heavy load will truly test their character.