Bolton Wanderers confirm friendly encounter with Orlando Pirates in Marbella

This encounter forms part of the Buccaneers' pre-season tour to Europe, a tradition introduced under former head coach Jose Riveiro. Pirates recently announced via their social media platforms that they would be heading back to Spain, marking their third consecutive year of pre-season preparations in Europe.

In a statement on their official website, Wanderers shared details of their pre-season schedule under new head coach Steven Schumacher.

"The intensive week-long programme in Marbella is a key part of the squad's preparations for the upcoming League One campaign. The trip will conclude with a friendly fixture against South African giants, Orlando Pirates," the club wrote.

Wanderers also acknowledged the significance of the fixture, highlighting the shared history between the two clubs through former defender Mark Fish.

"The fixture is given extra resonance by the shared history of defender Mark Fish. The South African international became a champion at Orlando Pirates, winning the African Champions League in 1995, before joining Wanderers two years later after a spell with Italian giants, Lazio."

Last year, Pirates played against Sevilla, Al Sadd SC, and English Championship side Plymouth Argyle.