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Evidence Makgopa, Orlando PiratesBackpage

Predicting Orlando Pirates XI to play Pyramids in the Caf Champions League semi-final - Exit Evidence Makgopa, enter Tshegofatso Mabasa?

On Saturday, Orlando Pirates host Pyramids FC in the first leg of the Caf Champions League semi-final at the FNB Stadium.

This is a massive game for the Soweto giants, who are chasing the second star after the 1995 triumph.

Here, GOAL selects Pirates’ strongest XI and predicts how Jose Riveiro is likely to set up his side against their opponents.

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

    GOALKEEPER: Sipho Chaine

    Chaine is set to continue his role between the posts. He has been one of the reasons why Bucs are in the semis.

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  • Deano van Rooyen, Orlando PiratesBackpage

    RIGHT WING-BACK: Deano van Rooyen

    This is a critical game that needs the best defenders on the pitch, and Van Rooyen is among them.

  • Deon Hotto, Orlando PiratesBackpage

    LEFT WING-BACK: Deon Hotto

    The Namibia international is Riveiro's trusted soldier at left-back. Surely, the Spaniard can't change his position in the critical time.

  • Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Orlando Pirates, March 2025Orlando Pirates

    CENTRE-BACK: Mbekezeli Mbokazi

    The young talent has shown maturity beyond his years which has granted him a place in the starting XI.

  • Nkosinathi Sibisi and Sinoxolo Kwayiba, Orlando Pirates vs Chippa UnitedBackpage

    CENTRE-BACK: Nkosinathi Sibisi

    The South Africa international is enjoying the best form this season and is set to keep his place.

  • Tapelo Xoki and Sipho Chaine, Orlando PiratesBackpage

    CENTER-BACK: Tapelo Xoki

    The experienced defender is the final piece in a three-man defence. The trio has been doing well in continental games.

  • Makhehleni Makhaula, Orlando Pirates vs Cape Town CityBackpage

    CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Makhehleni Makhaula

    The ability to break up play in midfield makes the 35-year-old a vital player for the Sea Robbers. He dictates the tempo in the department, which makes him vital for the team.

  • Thalente Mbatha and Prins Tjiueza, Orlando Pirates vs Cape Town CityBackpage

    CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Thalente Mbatha

    A composed distributor who effectively complements Makhaula in midfield.

  • Relebohile Mofokeng, Orlando Pirates, March 2025Orlando Pirates

    ATTACKING MIDFIELDER: Relebohile Mofokeng

    The versatile creative attacker has been playing the no.10 role well in the 5-3-2 setup.

  • Mohau Nkota, Orlando PiratesBackpage

    STRIKER: Mohau Nkota

    The 20-year-old has been twinning Evidence Makgopa in the final third, in the previous games.

  • Evidence Makgopa, Orlando Pirates, August 2024Backpagepix

    STRIKER: Evidence Makgopa

    Despite struggling to score, he brings others into play, explaining why he might be starting again.