+18 | Commercial Content | T&C's Apply | Play Responsibly | Publishing Principles
Orlando PiratesBackpage

Predicting Orlando Pirates XI against Al Ahly - Van Rooyen & Tapelo Xoki to start versus the reigning Caf Champions League champions?

Orlando Pirates resume their Caf Champions League campaign on Saturday with an entertaining Group C clash against the defending champions Al Ahly.

This is a crucial fixture for the Sea Robbers who have no major injury issues as confirmed by Riveiro.

It gives the Spaniard an opportunity to come up with a formidable starting team that will do the job versus the Egyptian giants.

Here, GOAL predicts how Bucs might start this weekend.

Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱
  • Sipho Chaine, Orlando PiratesBackpage

    GOALKEEPER: Sipho Chaine

    Chaine has been doing well as Bucs' number one and he also finds himself in the Bafana Bafana set-up.

    It is highly unlikely that Riveiro will drop Chaine ahead of the crucial continental fixture.

  • Advertisement
  • Deano Van Rooyen of Orlando PiratesBackpagepix

    RIGHT-BACK: Deano Van Rooyen

    After coming in as a substitute in the last two matches against CR Belouizdad and Stellenbosch, the right-back might be started on Saturday in the place of Thabiso Monyane who has been putting in a decent shift.

  • Deon Hotto, Orlando PiratesBackpage

    LEFT-BACK: Deon Hotto

    The versatile Namibia international has been consistent for the Sea Robbers.

    He is a threat going forward as well; in the 18 games played across all competitions, Hotto has managed three goals and two assists.

  • ENJOYED THIS STORY?

    Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

  • Nkosinathi Sibisi, Orlando Pirates, September 2024Backpagepix

    CENTRE-BACK: Nkosinathi Sibisi

    Despite Tapelo Xoki's recovery, Riveiro will most likely stick with Sibisi and Sesane.

    The duo has developed a vital understanding that can't be messed with, at least not against Al Ahly.

  • Thabiso Sesane, Orlando Pirates & Lehlohonolo Mojela, Stellenbosch, MTN8, October 2024BackPagePix

    CENTRE-BACK: Thabiso Sesane

    In the absence of the injured Olisa Ndah, Sesane has brought stability to the heart of the Sea Robbers' defence.

    The 24-year-old is a critical piece for Bucs.

  • Makhehleni Makhaula, Orlando PiratesBackpage

    CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Makhehlene Makhaula

    The tough-tackling 35-year-old midfielder will be expected to keep the shape in midfield.

    However, the most important role will be to break Al Ahly's attacks and help in commanding proceedings in the department.

  • Thalente Mbatha, Orlando PiratesBackpage

    CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Thalente Mbatha

    Since breaking into the starting team, Mbatha has never looked back.

    The former SuperSport United player was not at his best against Stellenbosch and Riveiro hopes it will change against the Red Devils.

  • Patrick Maswanganyi Orlando PiratesBackpagepix

    ATTACKING MIDFIELDER: Patrick Maswanganyi

    Tito has been blowing hot and cold this season as opposed to the previous one.

    One assist from 17 appearances is surely below par for a player of his quality. However, he is still expected to start this weekend.

  • Mohau Nkota Orlando PiratesBackpagepix

    RIGHT ATTACKER: Mohau Nkota

    The 20-year-old winger defied the odds to score a brace against CR Belouizdad in Group C's opening fixture.

    Despite his struggles in the 1-0 loss to Stellies, his pace and hard work will surely be useful against Percy Tau's Al Ahly.

  •  Relebohile Mofokeng Orlando PiratesBackpagepix

    LEFT ATTACKER: Relebohile Mofokeng

    Mofokeng has been doing well and is coach Jose Riviero's trusted soldier. He has four goals and eight assists so far making him the most in-form attacker at the club.

  • Evidence Makgopa, Orlando Pirates, August 2024Backpagepix

    CENTRE-FORWARD: Evidence Makgopa

    Makgopa is the club's top goalscorer so far and is currently Riveiro's first choice.

    He has to keep the defenders busy and take the chances that come his way.

0