Orlando Pirates are gearing up for their third pre-season friendly match in Spain, where they will face La Liga outfit UD Las Palmas this evening.
The clash is expected to be the Buccaneers’ toughest test so far on tour – and all eyes will be on how new head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou sets up his side as he chases his first win since taking over from Jose Riveiro.
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So far, Pirates have shown glimpses of promise in their preparations, but results have been mixed – a 2-0 loss to Bolton Wanderers followed by a 1-1 draw with Cypriot side Pafos. Against Las Palmas, the level of intensity and technical quality is expected to rise, and fans will be eager to see how Pirates respond.
With several new signings in camp, including some fresh Bafana Bafana faces from the recent FIFA international week, tonight’s clash could offer a better glimpse into the coach’s preferred combinations as the Betway Premiership kick-off draws nearer.
Could this be the starting line-up?
The Siya crew has put together a predicted starting XI based on what we’ve seen from the first two matches – and factoring in which players the technical team may be eager to assess further.
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Will we see more of Oswin Appollis or Sinoxolo Kwayiba? Could one of the new defenders finally get a proper run? And will Sipho Chaine retain his spot between the sticks?
Tap the gallery to see the predicted Pirates starting line-up against Las Palmas!
As always with pre-season, there’s a balancing act between conditioning and competition, but with time running out before the domestic season begins, the pressure to fine-tune a winning formula is growing.
Photos by Orlando Pirates and BackpagePix
