Orlando Pirates target immediate response to MTN8 final defeat against TS Galaxy

The Buccaneers are aiming to return to winning ways after Saturday's 2-0 defeat in the final at Moses Mabhida Stadium ended their hopes of lifting the competition for a fifth consecutive time.

Teboho Mokoena opened the scoring for Sundowns before Iqraam Rayners converted a late penalty to seal the victory. Pirates had an opportunity to draw level earlier in the second half, but Ghampani Lungu saw his penalty saved by goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.

Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has backed his side to respond, with Pirates returning to league action in a strong position despite the cup disappointment.

The Soweto giants have collected 19 points from seven matches and sit second on the standings, one point behind leaders Sundowns with a game in hand. They have won their last five league fixtures, including a 2-0 away victory over Marumo Gallants on 20 September.

Pirates have also been particularly effective at home, winning all three of their league matches at the Orlando venue this season, each by a 2-0 scoreline.

Tuesday's opponents arrive in Soweto in need of a significant improvement. TS Galaxy are 12th with six points from seven matches, having won once, drawn three times and lost three games.

The Rockets, coached by former Kaizer Chiefs striker Bernard Parker, have endured a difficult run, losing their last two matches against Kruger United and Chippa United before the international break. Their most recent league victory came against Gallants on 25 August, when they secured a 3-2 away win.

However, Galaxy have shown greater resilience on their travels, collecting points against Siwelele and Sekhukhune United in recent away fixtures.

Pirates will take confidence from their recent dominance of this fixture. They completed a league double over Galaxy last season, scoring eight goals without reply, including a commanding 6-0 win at Mbombela Stadium.

The Buccaneers have won seven of the 12 league meetings between the sides, with Galaxy claiming three victories and two matches ending in draws. The Mpumalanga club last beat Pirates in May 2024.

With the title race finely poised and Galaxy desperate for points, Tuesday's encounter presents both teams with an opportunity to make an important statement as Betway Premiership action resumes.