Orlando Pirates will begin their pre-season campaign in Spain with a friendly against Spanish second-tier side Córdoba CF on Wednesday as preparations for the new season gather pace.
The Buccaneers are based in Marbella from 12 to 25 July, where they will play five high-profile friendlies against Córdoba CF, Cádiz CF, Al-Ittihad Club, Neom SC and Las Palmas.
After ending a 14-year wait for the Betway Premiership title last season, Pirates are gearing up to defend their crown under new head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.
The Soweto giants also enjoyed domestic cup success, lifting both the MTN8 and Carling Knockout Cup to complete an impressive campaign.
Spain has become a happy hunting ground for Orlando Pirates during pre-season in recent years.
The club’s training camps have laid the foundation for sustained success, with the Buccaneers winning six trophies over the past three seasons, including four consecutive MTN8 titles.
The clash against Córdoba CF is expected to give Ouaddou an early opportunity to assess his squad, particularly the club’s new signings.
The Buccaneers have strengthened their squad with seven additions, including Bohlale Ngwato, Ghampani Lungu and Mthetheleli Mthiyane, all of whom will be eager to impress.
The Buccaneers have also produced encouraging results during previous pre-season tours in Spain, recording memorable victories over La Liga outfits Sevilla FC (2-0) and Granada CF (2-0). Those performances have often translated into strong starts to the domestic campaign.
Orlando Pirates in Spain for pre-season
Pirates will open their Betway Premiership title defence on 1 August when they host Durban City at Orlando Stadium, with hopes of carrying their positive pre-season momentum into the new campaign.
The next three weeks will be crucial for the Sea Robbers as they look to begin life without stay player Relebohile Mofokeng.
