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Cemran Dansin & Simphiwe Selepe, Orlando Pirates, May 2025Orlando Pirates

Predicting Orlando Pirates' XI to face MTN8-chasing Magesi FC - Another exciting Bucs academy product to make full PSL debut?

Orlando Pirates will face Magesi FC in their season-ending Premier Soccer League duel on Wednesday at the Orlando Stadium.

For Magesi, it is a crucial game since a big victory would put them into the PSL top eight if they win by five or more clear goals, but for Pirates, a win or a loss will not have any impact on their log standing.

The home game is a chance for Mandla Ncikazi to prove that he is a coach with winning credentials and is capable of leading the Sea Robbers. He is serving as an interim coach since Jose Riveiro left, but has not managed to post convincing results so far.

GOAL takes a look at how Ncikazi can line up his squad to face Magesi.

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  • Sipho Chaine, Orlando Pirates, February 2025.Orlando Pirates

    GOALKEEPER: Sipho Chaine

    He did not keep a clean sheet in their one-all draw against AmaZulu, but is expected to start ahead of Siyabonga Dladla and Melusi Buthelezi.

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  • Deano Van Rooyen of Orlando PiratesBackpagepix

    RIGHT-BACK: Deano Van Rooyen

    The former Stellenbosch defender has proved to be a defensive stalwart since he joined the Bucs.

    Although Pirates have nothing much to fight for, Van Rooyen, considered one of the shining signings of the season, is expected to start.

  • Paseka Mako, Orlando PiratesBackpage

    LEFT-BACK: Paseka Mako

    He is fit again and should be given more minutes in order to build his match fitness level, as he has been unlucky with injuries.

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  • Nkosinathi Sibisi, Orlando PiratesBackpage

    CENTRE-BACK: Nkosinathi Sibisi

    The 1995-born star should start at the back, and his experience is expected to play a huge part as Bucs end the season.

  • Tapelo Xoki, Orlando Pirates, May 2025Backpage

    CENTRE-BACK: Tapelo Xoki

    With Mbekezeli Mbokazi out after he was substituted last time out because of injury, Xoki should partner Sibisi at the heart of the defence.

  • Simphiwe Selepe, Orlando Pirates, May 2025Backpage

    CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Simphiwe Selepe

    Selepe has always been a preferred candidate for this position ahead of Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo and Miguel Timm when experienced Makhehlene Makhaula is not available.

  • Simphiwe Selepe, Orlando Pirates, May 2025Backpage

    CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Thalente Mbatha

    A regular starter, as Pirates bid farewell to their fans until next season, Mbatha should be involved in the search for a win against Magesi.

  • Relebohile Mofokeng, Orlando PiratesBackpage

    ATTACKING MIDFIELDER: Relebohile Mofokeng

    His creativity, speed, and ability to maneuver even in tight spaces have made the Pirates an outstanding player this season.

    When fit, there is always no reason not to start Mofokeng.

  • Mohau Nkota, Orlando PiratesBackpage

    RIGHT ATTACKER: Mohau Nkota

    From how he plays and how he faces opponents, it's apparent that Nkota's confidence has grown steadily.

  • Deon Hotto, Orlando PiratesBackpage

    LEFT ATTACKER: Deon Hotto

    He is a reliable utility player and is expected to start again ahead of Monapule Saleng.

  •  Tshegofatso Mabasa, Orlando Pirates, August 2024Backpagepix

    CENTRE-FORWARD: Tshegofatso Mabasa

    He found the back of the net against Golden Arrows.

    He should get another chance to try and score more goals and add to his seven goals so far.

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