Orlando Pirates are gearing up for the second leg of the CAF Champions League preliminary round against Lioli of Lesotho.
The Buccaneers claimed a 3-0 win in the first leg last week at the Free State Stadium to put themselves one foot into the next round. Playing at home on Saturday, expect coach Abdeslam Ouaddou to make several changes to the team as he looks to give some new players a run.
Having overcome a stubborn Siwelele side, Orlando Pirates will need to rest key players such as Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Relebohile Mofokeng and Sipho Chaine. The Sea Robbers have already played 11 matches across all competitions this season and will need to rotate their squad if they are to challenge for all titles.
Which Orlando Pirates players could get a rare start?
Melusi Buthelezi could earn his first start in goals this season. The 27-year-old keeper played three league matches last season following Chaine’s injury. On Saturday, he will likely be in goals, given the 3-0 caution Pirates have.
Melusi Buthelezi made his debut with the Pirates jersey in 2023 and did not concede. He has impressed every time he has been in goals and it should be another comfortable outing for him if he gets to play.
Captain Nkosinathi Sibisi is expected to return to the starting eleven, as well as Boitumelo Radiopane. Nkosikhona Ndaba got a few minutes last week and might very well get a rare start for Orlando Pirates.
Ouaddou could very well introduce Thabiso Sesane, Deano van Rooyen and Makhehlene Makhaula if they are fit. The three players were instrumental during the Buccaneers’ CAF and Betway Premiership charge.
Although Van Rooyen is likely to own the right-back position, Sesane and Makhaula will struggle to get game time with their positions occupied.
Orlando Pirates host Lioli at the Orlando Stadium on Saturday in the CAF Champions League second leg first preliminary round. Kick-off is for 15:00.