Orlando Pirates out to end away losing streak against Marumo Gallants

Orlando Pirates out to end away losing streak against Marumo Gallants

The Buccaneers head into the clash on the back of an impressive 2-0 win over Durban City on Thursday evening as they play catch up on the league table following their CAF Champions League victory over La Cure Waves.

Meanwhile, Babina Noko find themselves struggling and winless at the bottom of the log after last week's 1-0 loss against AmaZulu in Durban.

However, Gallants have won their last two matches at home against the Buccaneers, scoring twice on both occassions despite using different venues to host the fixture [Peter Mokaba Stadium and Dr Molemela Stadium].

The two sides have met on eight previous occasions in total in the league, with Bucs winning five times, losing twice and drawing the first clash between them.

Gallants will be playing their first match since the dismissal of Phuti Mohafe as head coach, with Namibian Ronnie Kananelo taking over at the helm after parting ways with Pirates next CAF opponents African Stars.

"There is an energy and spirit that I am taking into this game, said former Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper Kananelo.

"Out of the many games that I have played against Pirates in my playing days, I've never lost against Pirates and that's what I am bringing to this game."

The home side will also be without captain Edgar Manaka following the midfielders sending off against Usuthu, while Pirates are expecting Gamphani Lungu and Andre de Jong back pending fitness tests.

Bafana Bafana midfielder Thalente Mbatha, Evidence Makgopa, Sihle Nduli and Mohau Nkota all miss out through injury.

Moroccan coach Abdeslam Ouaddou recently responded to suggestions that he is signing a lot of players from former club Gallants following the latest switch of Bheki Mabuza.

"People must understand that this big club has a scouting department that is responsible for bringing people in based on their identity and how we want to play the game," clarified Ouaddou.

"People must stop thinking that coach is bringing all of Marumo this side."

Kick-off is at 15h00.

Related News

Darrel Matsheke gets another chance under Gavin Hunt at Stellenbosch

Darrel Matsheke gets another chance under Gavin Hunt at Stellenbosch

  • 3 hours ago

Darrel Matsheke has been handed another opportunity to revive his career after returning to Stellenbosch, where he will reunite with coach Gavin Hunt.

Thapelo Morena opens up on long-awaited Bafana Bafana return

Thapelo Morena opens up on long-awaited Bafana Bafana return

  • 5 hours ago

Mamelodi Sundowns right-back Thapelo Morena could not hide his excitement after being included in Pitso Mosimane's 30-member Bafana Bafana squad for the upcoming AFCON 2027 qualifiers.

Khalil Ben Youssef: Hard work, strong mentality key for Durban City

Khalil Ben Youssef: Hard work, strong mentality key for Durban City

  • 4 hours ago

Durban City coach Khalil Ben Youssef believes his side must become more clinical after a promising start to the season has produced inconsistent results.

Orlando Pirates confirm immediate arrival of Bulelani Sigomoshe

Orlando Pirates confirm immediate arrival of Bulelani Sigomoshe

  • 6 hours ago

Orlando Pirates have officially bolstered their defensive options with the signing of Bulelani Sigomoshe from Milford FC.