Orlando Pirates emerge from the Africa Cup of Nations break with a trip to Lipopo to battle Sekhukhune United on Saturday, 24 January at 15:00.
Three points will propel Abdeslam Ouaddou’s side to the top of the league, where Mamelodi Sundowns currently sit with a one-point lead.
ORLANDO PIRATES IN DARING FORM
With two games in hand, the Sea Robbers have bagged 28 points from 12 matches. There have been nine wins, one draw, and two losses, scoring 18 goals and conceding only five.
The league’s Midfielder of the Season, Makhehlene Makhaula, is back from a six-month injury layoff. Two top-quality central defenders, Olisa Ndah and Thabiso Sesane, are also back on coach Ouaddou’s radar.
Sekhukhune have secured 25 points from 14 matches. That break down is seven wins, four draws, and just three losses.
Also read: Former Pirates striker on what makes Ouaddou special
SEKHUKHUNE UNITED
In the January transfer window, Sekhukhune focused on boosting their attack with wingers/forwards Tidiane Diomandé and Lehlohonolo Mojela.
Other attacking talents like Ronaldo Maarman and Sphiwe Mahlangu were also brought in for pace and creativity. The promising young defender Medupi Thokolo was promoted from within the club’s development ranks after impressing the coaching staff.