Orlando Pirates have broken silence on their scheduled trip to Europe and the tough opponents they will be playing against.
Earlier, the Buccaneers announced that the team’s first pre-season camp will be held in Rustenburg from July 2 to July 8, following the players return from the off-season break to begin their preparations for the new season with the medicals and general assessments at the High-Performance Centre in Tshwane at the beginning of the week.
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As expected, the second phase of Bucs’ pre-season will be held in Spain, which is the home country of head coach Jose Riveiro and assistant Sergio Almenara, the club confirmed.
“Orlando Pirates is pleased to announce that its first team will be heading to Spain this month ahead of the 2023/24 season. Jose Riveiro and his charges will be based in Marabella from July 9 to July 21, 2023,” Pirates confirmed on the club’s official website.
“The Buccaneers will play formidable opposition during this period. On July 13, Riveiro’s men will face Israeli outfit Maccabi Tel Aviv, before taking on Independiente da Valle two days later. Then to cap off the tour, Pirates will face UD Las Palmas on July 19. The Spanish side will compete in La Liga this season after gaining promotion alongside Granada,” stated Bucs.
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The Soweto giants further provided more information on their opponents of the tour:
Maccabi Tel Aviv
Founded in 1906, Maccabi Tel Aviv is one of Israel’s most successful clubs, boasting a rich history and a passionate fan base. The Israeli Premier League outfit finished third in the last campaign, have won 20 Israeli Premier League championships and several State Cups. Renowned for their attacking prowess and tactical acumen, Maccabi Tel Aviv will undoubtedly provide a stern test for Orlando Pirates, making this matchup an enticing clash of footballing cultures.
Independiente del Valle
Independiente del Valle, hailing from Ecuador, will be another tough opponent awaiting the Buccaneers during this tour. Established in 1958, Independiente del Valle has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in recent years. Los Negriazules currently lead in their domestic league with 11 wins out of their opening 15 matches. Known for their disciplined defence and dynamic style of play, Independiente del Valle will pose a formidable challenge.
UD Las Palmas
Las Palmas, a prominent Spanish club that was founded in 1949. La Unión Deportiva Palmas has a long-standing tradition in Spanish football and has enjoyed stints in La Liga, the country’s top division. On 27 May 2023, Las Palmas achieved promotion to the first division by sealing a 2nd position finish on the very last match of the season.
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