Orlando Pirates news

By picking up yet another win, the Sea Robbers are building up perfect momentum for the Carling Knockout Cup final against Marumo Gallants. Against Durban City, players showed individual brilliance and team brilliance, a testament that Abdeslam Ouadou's rotation policy could be working. Although they started the season struggling, the Sea Robbers have made their way to the top of the Premier Soccer League standings and are now sending a clear signal that they are serious title contenders.

The Sea Robbers were once again lethal as they managed a Premier Soccer League win over Durban City on Saturday at Moses Mabhida Stadium. Meanwhile, there was a palpable sigh of relief for Pirates fans who saw Mbekezile Mbokazi back into the starting line-up again. For a week now, the centre-back has been a subject of intense debate, as reports had indicated he was closer to the exit door, reportedly on his way to Chicago Fire in Major League Soccer.

The Bafana Bafana legend arrived in the East African country in March 2025 fresh from a stint at three-time European champions Manchester United. Taking charge of the Harambee Stars marked his first venture into national team management. However, a disastrous result earlier in November has placed him under intense scrutiny. Now, the Cape Town-born football great faces growing pressure to steady the team and prove he can thrive in international coaching.

Durban City are gearing up for a fierce showdown when they host a ruthless Soweto outfit at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday. The Durban side will be hoping to sign off their final home match of the first half of the 2025/26 campaign in style and, with a bit of luck, push themselves up into fourth place. Meanwhile, Pirates will arrive intent on guarding their winning streak and ensuring their momentum doesn’t take a knock.

The defending Premier Soccer League champions continued their continental journey on Friday, 28 November, travelling to Stade Ali Ammar Dit Ali La Ponite with the aim of extending their winning start in the CAF Champions League. The Brazilians had opened their group stage campaign in style last weekend, securing a 3-1 victory over Saint Eloi Lupopo at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.

After picking up yet another Premier Soccer League win against Chippa United, Bucs will be hunting for more points when they visit Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday to face Durban City. The Sea Robbers are on a three-match winning run across all competitions, and the game against the PSL debutants is a chance for them to make it four straight wins. There was a sigh of relief for Pirates after Makhehlene Makhaula came back from a long-term injury, and the experienced midfielder featured against Chippa at Orlando Stadium, although as a second-half substitute. 

The former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns star continues to make his mark for the Moroccan club, once again proving influential as Wydad Casablanca powered to their second victory of the CAF Confederation Cup group stage on Friday, 28 November. His impact has kept the giants firmly in contention, underlining his growing importance on the continental stage.

Three Durban City vs Orlando Pirates predictions for their PSL clash on Saturday afternoon, including value on the first goal bet.

As Bucs eye yet another trophy this season, they might chase the domestic glory without players who have been phenomenal for them. It largely depends on how head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou will play his cards in regard to the players in danger of missing the cup final. Their opponents are also not safe, as they could also miss equally crucial players for the final.

The Bafana defender is reportedly on his way to Major League Soccer, with Chicago Fire rumoured to be his next home. With the debate over the defender's imminent speculated move dominating headlines, the question on many lips is who is going to replace him. Mbokazi, within a short period of time, managed to become Bucs' top star, and his exit, when it is finally confirmed, will leave a huge gap in the team.

The former Al Ahly coach has tipped Amakhosi players to eventually dominate South Africa national team selections in the coming years. Masandawana have, in recent years, been the backbone of the Bafana Bafana, but that dominance has recently shifted to the Buccaneers. However, Mosimane believes Chiefs could soon restore balance in the national team setup by providing more players with support.

Two Amakhosi and Buccaneers stars are being closely compared as their seasons take contrasting directions. One has been in outstanding form, delivering consistent performances that have drawn widespread praise. The other, however, has seen his game go on a decline, facing harsh criticism from supporters as he struggles to rediscover his best form that landed him a contract with the Soweto giants.

The 38-year-old coach gained valuable experience after being at the helm of both the Buccaneers and Masandawana in high-pressure environments. He now finds himself in another demanding role at MC Alger, where expectations remain just as high and intense. This comes after a season at Wydad Casablanca, where he further sharpened his tactical prowess.