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Thabiso Sesane, Orlando Pirates, August 2024Backpagepix

Predicting Orlando Pirates' XI to face CR Belouizdad in Caf Champions League clash - Jose Riveiro to rest Thabiso Sesane for Tapelo Xoki?

Orlando Pirates are returning to the Caf Champions League action after a disappointing Premier Soccer League defeat against Cape Town City on Wednesday.

The Buccaneers are gearing up for their match in Africa's prestigious tournament against Algerian team CR Belouizdad at Orlando Stadium on Sunday.

A victory for Jose Riveiro's side will see them advance to the quarterfinals of the competition.

Here, GOAL anticipates how the Spanish coach may line up his troops for the encounter against Belouizdad.

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  • Sipho Chaine, Orlando Pirates BackpagePix

    GOALKEEPER: Sipho Chaine

    Chaine has yet to give Riveiro a reason to bench him in favour of Melusi Buthelezi. 

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  • Deano van Rooyen, Orlando PiratesBackpage

    RIGHT-BACK: Deano Van Rooyen

    The 28-year-old is a significantly better and more dependable choice on the right side compared to Thabiso Monyane.

  • Deon Hotto, Orlando PiratesBackpage

    LEFT-BACK: Deon Hotto

    The back four selects itself for the Sea Robbers, with the hardworking Namibian fitting in effortlessly at left-back.

  • Orlando Pirates defender Thabiso Sesane, April 2024BackPagePix

    CENTRE-BACK: Thabiso Sesane

    Tapelo Xoki has made a return from a long-term injury, but the honest Bucs coach cannot bench Sesane for the vice-captain without sufficient rationale.

  • Nkosinathi Sibisi, Orlando Pirates, September 2024Backpagepix

    CENTRE-BACK: Nkosinathi Sibisi

    Sibisi, who serves as a captain in the absence of Innocent Maela and Xoki on the pitch, must perform at his best to keep his defence stable against Belouizdad’s attackers.

  • Makhehlene Makhaula, Orlando Pirates, September 2024Backpagepix

    CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Makhehleni Makhaula

    The in-form midfielder is anticipated to make his way back into the starting eleven after missing the midweek PSL match due to suspension.

  • Thalente Mbatha, Orlando PiratesBackpagepix

    CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Thalente Mbatha

    Mbatha returned to the lineup against the Citizens on Wednesday after missing the Caf Champions League match against d'Abidjan a week and a half ago and delivered a solid performance.

    He is likely to start ahead of fellow star Kabelo Dlamini.

  • Patrick Maswanganyi, Orlando Pirates, August 2024Backpagepix

    ATTACKING MIDFIELDER: Patrick Maswanganyi

    The Bafana Bafana international will look to bounce back from missing a penalty that could have guaranteed Bucs at least a point on Wednesday. 

  • Mohau Nkota Orlando PiratesBackpagepix

    RIGHT ATTACKER: Mohau Nkota

    Since his debut in the senior team last October, the emerging talent has shown promise. Nkota will strive to continue building his reputation on the continental stage.

  • Relebohile Mofokeng, Orlando PiratesBackpage

    LEFT ATTACKER: Relebohile Mofokeng

    The young fan-favourite star is one of the most impactful players for Pirates and has not yet given the Spanish coach a reason to place him on the bench.

  • Tshegofatso Mabasa of Orlando PiratesBackpagepix

    CENTRE-FORWARD: Tshegofatso Mabasa

    The Bloemfontein-born star has failed to score in his last two matches. He will be eager to regain his scoring touch.