THE FUSE

Orlando Pirates begin their 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign against Milford FC at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday afternoon, with expectations sky-high after a memorable treble-winning season.

The Buccaneers head into the new campaign full of confidence following an encouraging pre-season tour of Spain, where they won two of their five matches while giving several young players the chance to impress.

Although the departure of Relebohile Mofokeng leaves a significant void, Pirates have retained the core of the squad that dominated domestic football last season.

The exits of Thabiso Lebitso, Sipho Mbule and Tshegofatso Mabasa are unlikely to have a major impact, as all three played limited roles under head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.

Here’s how the Buccaneers could line up for their league opener against Milford.

Goalkeeper

Sipho Chaine

Chaine is expected to remain Pirates’ undisputed first-choice goalkeeper. The 29-year-old enjoyed another outstanding campaign last season, keeping more than 20 clean sheets, and will be aiming to start the new season on a positive note.

Defence

Kamohelo Sebelebele is set to continue at right wing-back after an impressive debut season in black and white. His attacking runs and energy will be crucial against a Milford side likely to spend long periods defending.

Captain Nkosinathi Sibisi should marshal the defence alongside Lebone Seema, while Nkosikhona Ndaba is tipped to start at left wing-back ahead of the experienced Deon Hotto.

Midfield

Camren Dansin could be rewarded with a rare league start after catching the eye during Pirates’ pre-season tour. The youngster is expected to partner Thalente Mbatha, whose composure and passing make him one of the league’s standout midfielders.

Pirates are expected to dominate Milford in the middle of the park.

Attack

New signing Oswin Appollis could be deployed in a more central attacking role, operating just behind the striker and ahead of Patrick Maswanganyi.

On the flanks, Bohlale Ngwato may be handed a surprise start on the left, with Tshepang Moremi providing pace and width from the right.

Leading the attack, Yanela Mbuthuma appears the favourite to get the nod ahead of Evidence Makgopa. However, Boitumelo Radiopane’s impressive performances in Spain have strengthened his case for a starting berth.

Pirrates have four strikers available against Milford

Pirates could also spring a surprise by handing recently signed Norwegian forward Sebastian Pedersen his debut after arriving from Sogndal Fotball.

If selected, the striker would provide another exciting dimension to Ouaddou’s attack as the Buccaneers look to begin their title challenge with three points.

Here’s Orlando Pirates expected linup against Milford: Chaine, Sebelebele, Sibisi, Seema, Ndaba, Dansin, Mbatha, Appollis, Moremi, Ngwatho and Mbuthuma.