Orlando Pirates starting line up: Siyabonga Dladla, Mpho Chabatsane, Sbangani Zulu, Deano Van Rooyen, Nkosikhona Ndaba, Simphiwe Selepe, Abdulaye Mariko, Patrick Maswanganyi, Mpho Padime, Ghampani Lungu, Yanela Mbuthuma.
Substitutes: Sipho Chaine (goalkeeper), Tapelo Xoki, Cristian Derbyshire, Neo Rapoo, Kamohelo Sebelebele, Mthelelelli Mthiyane, Simphiwe Masilela, Cemran Dansin, Tshepang Moremi, Bohlale Ngwato and Boitumelo Radiopane.
The selection confirms three debutants: Sbangani Zulu from Richards Bay in central defence, Ghampani Lungu from Siwelele FC on the wing, and Mpho Padime from the reserve team.
The Buccaneers face Spain’s second division side Córdoba CF in their first of five scheduled pre-season friendlies in Spain. The clash marks the beginning of the Sea Robbers’ preparations for the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season.
Abdeslam Ouaddou’s side enter the new campaign with high expectations after winning the Betway Premiership, MTN8 and Carling Knockout titles last season. They will also return to the CAF Champions League.
FOUR MORE TESTS AWAIT
After facing Córdoba CF, Orlando Pirates will continue their Spanish tour with four more pre-season fixtures:
- 18 July: vs Cádiz CF
- 20 July: vs Al-Ittihad
- 22 July: vs UD Las Palmas
- 24 July: vs NEOM SC
These matches will give Ouaddou another opportunity to assess his squad before the Betway Premiership season gets underway. The Spanish tour is expected to play a key role as the defending league champions build towards another title challenge and their return to continental football.
The match is live on SuperSport 209 and Pirates TV on YouTube.
ALL SEVEN NEW SIGNINGS AT ORLANDO PIRATES
Orlando Pirates have already strengthened their squad with seven additions ahead of the new campaign.
- Mthetheleli Mthiyane – Midfielder signed from Stellenbosch FC
- Neo Rapoo – Left wing-back signed from Siwelele FC
- Matome Mmolai – Midfielder signed from Leicesterford City
- Ghampani Lungu – Striker signed from Siwelele FC
- Bohlale Ngwato – Winger signed from Siwelele FC
- Sbangani Zulu – Central defender signed from Richards Bay
- Aphiwe Baliti – Left wing-back signed from Siwelele FC, before immediately returning on loan for the 2026/27 season.
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