Orlando Pirates resume their CAF Champions League campaign this weekend when they face Namibian champions African Stars in the second preliminary round.
The Buccaneers will be aiming to take a positive result from the first leg before hosting the return fixture, with victory over the two legs securing their place in the group stages.
Pirates have struggled to negotiate this stage of the competition in recent years, suffering two penalty shootout defeats within the space of three years.
Head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou will be hoping his side can avoid another disappointing exit and put themselves in a strong position ahead of the second leg.
Last season, the Buccaneers suffered a painful elimination at the hands of Saint Eloi Lupopo.
After losing the first leg 3-0 away from home, Orlando Pirates produced a remarkable comeback to win the return fixture by the same scoreline. However, they ultimately lost on penalties, missing out on a place in the group stages.
With that disappointment still fresh, Pirates will be determined to make their experience count as they pursue continental success this season.
When Are Orlando Pirates Playing African Stars?
Pirates travel to the Botswana National Stadium to face African Stars on Saturday, 17 October, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00.
The Soweto giants know the importance of securing a favourable result in the first leg to ease the pressure ahead of the return fixture.
Progression to the group stages would represent a significant achievement for Pirates, who are looking to make their mark on the continental stage.
Orlando Pirates Predicted Starting XI
Ouaddou could make the following selections for the first-leg encounter against the Namibian champions:
Sipho Chaine; Ghampani Lungu, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Lebone Seema, Nkosikhona Ndaba; Thapelo Mokobodi, Mthetheli Mthiyane, Simphiwe Masilela; Oswin Appollis, Tshepang Moremi and Boitumelo Radiopane.
