Orlando Pirates’ first match this week

Orlando Pirates’ first competitive fixture in the new Betway Premiership season under new coach Abdeslam Ouaddou is upon us.

Orlando Pirates will be eager to make a strong statement with a reshaped technical team post the Jose Riveiro era.

A successful MTN8 start would not only boost morale but also set the tone for what could be a season of transformation under Ouaddou.

MTN8: ORLANDO PIRATES VS POLOKWANE CITY

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*Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou trains his team ahead of the MTN8 game against Polokwane City. Image: orlandopirates/Instagram*

City’s solid showing last season and their return to the MTN8 prove that they are more than capable of producing surprises. They’ll arrive in Soweto with nothing to lose and everything to gain, which could make them a dangerous opponent.

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All eyes will be on new Orlando Pirates winger Oswin Appollis, who faces his former team just weeks after completing his move to the Soweto giants. His pace, creativity, and inside knowledge of Polokwane’s defensive setup could be a game-changer.

What Oswin Appollis said about joining Orlando Pirates:

“It is a dream come true to play for Pirates; playing for this great club is an honour. I always watched Pirates on TV; wearing this jersey means a lot to me,” said Appollis.

“Facing Polokwane City so soon after leaving makes this even more special. But I’m focused on helping my new team win. That’s the most important thing.”