All eyes will be on Orlando Pirates this weekend as they begin the defence of their Betway Premiership title against newly promoted Milford FC.
The Buccaneers will be eager to make a strong start after learning valuable lessons from last season. Despite going on to win the league, Pirates endured a nightmare opening, losing their first two matches and finding themselves rooted to the bottom of the table.
However, they responded in impressive fashion, putting together a remarkable run of results that saw them climb the standings and emerge as genuine title contenders. Their consistency and winning mentality ultimately helped them edge rivals Mamelodi Sundowns to the championship by a single point.
With a strengthened squad following the arrival of eight new signings, expectations are even higher this season. Orlando Pirates will be expected to dominate newcomers Milford FC and secure a convincing victory in front of their home supporters.
A strong performance would not only give the champions the perfect start to their title defence but also send an early warning to their rivals that they remain the team to beat.
The big question, however, is whether the Buccaneers can maintain the same hunger and determination that carried them to last season’s success. If they can, they will once again be among the favourites to lift the trophy.
How Orlando Pirates can look against Miford
The match will be played at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday (1 August 2026). Kick off is set for 15:00 and the match will be live on SuperSport 2.
Abdeslam Ouaddou is expected to field a very attacking team against Milford which could see a 4-3-3 formation.
Here’s Orlando Pirates expected linup against Milford: Chaine, Sebelebele, Sibisi, Seema, Ndaba, Dansin, Mbatha, Appollis, Moremi, Ngwatho and Mbuthuma.
