Betway Premiership: Orlando Pirates push for top spot at Durban City

Kick-off is at 15h30.

Pirates enter the final league match of 2025 level on 25 points with Mamelodi Sundowns, who hold a slender two-goal advantage on goal difference. The Buccaneers have been in superb form, unbeaten since 12 August and collecting eight wins from their 11 league fixtures. With a game in hand, they have the chance to finish the year on top of the table.

Durban City, meanwhile, have impressed in their maiden season in the top flight. Gavin Hunt's side are sitting seventh with 19 points from 13 matches, earning five wins and four draws along the way. As their historic debut year closes, the Citizens will view this clash as a moment to announce themselves against one of South Africa's giants.

Team News

Pirates have welcomed Makhehlene Makhaula and Olisa Ndah back into full training, strengthening the squad ahead of the trip to Durban. The club have confirmed that Thembinkosi Lorch remains doubtful with a hip issue, while Thabiso Sesane continues treatment for an Achilles tendon rupture.

Durban City are yet to issue updated injury news, but Hunt is expected to rely on the core group that have carried the club through an encouraging first campaign.

What Was Said

Durban City chairman Farook Kadodia has highlighted the magnitude of the clash, calling it a landmark occasion for the club.

"Saturday will be a great occasion for not just Durban City fans but all football fans in the province," said Kadodia. "It is about growing our support base and building the club in our new home. This match is our opportunity to demonstrate the quality and fighting spirit we are building here."

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has warned his side to expect a fierce challenge.

"I think it will be a very tough game on Saturday. First of all, we are in Durban, so they will have this pride to play strongly against Orlando Pirates," he said.

Ouaddou stressed the importance of performance as well as results: "People come to watch a show. The way you deliver the game, the performance and the results, is very important. With our players back, we have the tools to do both."

He also praised his side's organisation at the back: "We are strong defensively because we think the same thing at the same moment. Everybody is working and giving effort, it is very difficult to score a goal against us."

The coach made the Buccaneers' ambition clear: "At Orlando Pirates, the goal is simple, we play to win every game."

Players to Watch

For Pirates, Oswin Appollis, Tshegofatso Mabasa, Relebohile Mofokeng and Patrick Maswanganyi have been central to the team's attacking rhythm and will again carry the goal threat.

Durban City will lean on the sharp form of forward Letsie Koapeng, who has scored three goals in 11 appearances for the team. and attacking midfielder Samkelo Maseko, both of whom have contributed key goals this season.

This marks the first-ever league meeting between the two sides, and with top-spot implications for Pirates and history on the line for Durban City, the stage is set for a fierce, action-packed encounter.