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Orlando Pirates kick off their 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday, and the pressure to perform is real. A treble-winning season sets the bar sky-high, and Abdeslam Ouaddou's side cannot afford a stumble on day one.
Squad Update After Spain Tour
The Buccaneers return from a pre-season tour of Spain having won two of five matches, with several youngsters putting their hands up for starting berths. The squad core is largely intact, though the departure of Relebohile Mofokeng — who swept the individual awards at the PSL Awards ceremony after last season — leaves a genuine creative gap. The exits of Thabiso Lebitso, Sipho Mbule and Tshegofatso Mabasa carry less weight; all three had limited roles under Ouaddou.
In goal, Chaine is the undisputed first choice. Kamohelo Sebelebele starts at right wing-back, with captain Nkosinathi Sibisi and Lebone Seema in central defence, and Nkosikhona Ndaba at left wing-back ahead of Deon Hotto. In midfield, Thalente Mbatha is the anchor, with young Camren Dansin — impressive in Spain — expected to partner him. Oswin Appollis operates in the hole behind the striker, with Bohlale Ngwato on the left flank and Tshepang Moremi providing pace from the right. Yanela Mbuthuma leads the line, though Boitumelo Radiopane's pre-season form keeps the door open.
Defensive Lineup and Formation
The wildcard is Norwegian forward Sebastian Pedersen, who signed from Sogndal Fotball and could make his debut off the bench or even from the start. His arrival adds another dimension to an attack that must replace Mofokeng's brilliance collectively rather than individually.