Carling Knockout Preview: Magesi - Orlando Pirates FC
Orlando Pirates resume action this week as they host Magesi in the opening round of the Carling Knockout Cup at Orlando Stadium. The fixture takes place on Saturday, 14 days after the Soweto Giants triumphant last outing.
The end of the October international break brings about the return of domestic football, with focus shifting from one cup campaign to the other. It begins with Buccaneers renewing their pursuit of the one piece of silverware that has eluded them in recent years.
Having endured an early exit in the previous edition, they now face a tricky task against the debutants who are desperate to make a mark in their first cup outing as a top-flight outfit.
Form Guide
Dikwena tša Meetse have had a mixed bag of results since their promotion from the top flight, experiencing each possible outcome in their four matches. They began their campaign with two consecutive defeats and have bounced back to claim four league points in their next two matches.
Their highest point so far this season came via an upset victory away to the high-flying Lamontville Golden Arrows, who were yet to taste defeat prior to their encounter with the Limpopo outfit. Three weeks have elapsed since their last fixture, giving them ample time to prepare for their next challenge which comes in the form of a Pirates side in rampant form.
The Buccaneers go into the clash in high spirits after claiming a historic third consecutive MTN8 title, beating Stellenbosch 3-1 in the final played at Moses Mabhida Stadium. In achieving the monumental feat, they stretched their winning streak in all competition to seven straight matches, and remain unbeaten in 11 games played since the start of the season.
They have emerged victorious in nine of these fixtures, and will look to maintain momentum against a potential stumbling block on the first hurdle.
Team News
Defender Olisa Ndah is among the Bucs players ruled out for the clash, while midfielder Thalente Mbatha is also doubtful after picking up an injury during the MTN8 final. Meanwhile, defensive duo Bandile Shandu and Tapelo Xoki are nearing a return to the match day squad, having both resumed full training.
Pirates have been further boosted by the return of seven players who were away on international duty, while Deano van Rooyen is also available for selection after having to sit out the final.
For Magesi, veteran defender Limbikani Mzava is back in camp after featuring for Malawi in the recent Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers.
Key Players
Monnapule Saleng (Orlando Pirates): With five goals across competitions already this season, Saleng goes into Saturday’s fixture determined to pick up where he left off. The 26-year-old’s impact cannot be understated, along with his ability to produce the goods in critical moments.
Wonderboy Makhubu (Magesi): The centre-forward has been an influential figure early on in Magesi’s campaign, netting their first-ever top flight goal and following it up with a Man of the Match performance in their most recent fixture. He will be integral to his side’s cause, as they look to halt the Soweto Giants’ title charge.
Head-to-Head
The Carling Knockout fixture will be the first-ever competitive meeting between the two sides.
TV Coverage and Ticket Info
Kick-off is at 15:00 and the match will be televised live on SuperSport PSL. You can also follow the action as it happens by keeping an eye on live updates shared across Orlando Pirates social media channels.
Tickets to attend the fixture are available online at TicketPro as well as selected outlets nationwide.
