Orlando Pirates make their first coastal trip of the new season as they travel to Gqeberha for this afternoon’s Betway Premiership clash against Chippa United.
The Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium will host what is shaping up to be one of the standout fixtures of the weekend, with the Buccaneers aiming to build on recent momentum in both league and cup competitions.
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Kaizer Chiefs’ strong start to the campaign – four wins and a draw from their opening five games – has set a high benchmark at the top end of the standings.
Amakhosi currently sit second, level on 13 points with Sekhukhune United, and their early charge has only heightened the sense of urgency for rivals like Pirates, who remain in the chasing pack.
The Buccaneers have steadied themselves after a frustrating start, climbing into mid-table while also booking another spot in the MTN8 final.
They head into the coastal clash sitting ninth in the standings with six points from four matches, including back-to-back victories at Orlando Stadium against Stellenbosch and league newcomers Orbit College.
However, their away form remains a concern, with this afternoon’s game representing a chance to register a first win on the road this season.
For Chippa, it has been a period of turbulence, with results proving hard to come by. The Chilli Boys will hope that home advantage can spark a turnaround, with the stakes even higher as they look to climb off the foot of the table after a difficult start to the campaign.
Pirates, meanwhile, have injury worries to contend with. Star forward Relebohile Mofokeng missed the midweek clash against Orbit after picking up a knock, and while his absence is not expected to be long-term, it remains to be seen if he features this afternoon.
Skipper Nkosinathi Sibisi and defender Deano van Rooyen are also on the mend after their own setbacks, leaving coach Abdeslam Ouaddou with some reshuffling to consider.
Still, the Buccaneers boast enough depth to field a competitive side capable of claiming all three points.
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And with Chiefs continuing to pile on the pressure near the summit, Pirates know that victory in Gqeberha could launch them as high as the top five, depending on results elsewhere.
Possible Pirates XI (Gallery Above)
We expect Abdeslam Ouaddou to retain the core of his side, blending experience with attacking options, while making minor tweaks to cover for injuries. The backline could remain largely consistent, with a solid midfield base expected to shield them, while the forward line will look to stretch Chippa’s defence and provide the goals needed for that elusive away win.
