THE FUSE

Orlando Pirates sit atop the Betway Premiership standings with 11 matches to go, but only on goal difference.

Here are the key details of their next match.

Pirates face Richards Bay next

The Buccaneers meet Richards Bay on Wednesday, 11 March at Orlando Stadium with kickoff set for 19:30. Here are details of every remaining fixture in 2025-26:

Wednesday, 11 March vs Richards Bay, Orlando Stadium – 19:30
Saturday, 14 March vs Siwelele FC, Orlando Stadium – 15:30
Sunday, 22 March vs TS Galaxy, Mbombela Stadium – 15:30
Tuesday, 7 April vs Golden Arrows, Orlando Stadium – 19:30
Friday, 10 April vs Richards Bay, Richards Bay Stadium – 19:30
Saturday, 18 April vs AmaZulu FC, Orlando Stadium – 15:00
Saturday, 25 April vs Kaizer Chiefs, FNB Stadium – 15:00
Tuesday, 5 May vs Stellenbosch FC, Athlone Stadium – 19:30
Saturday, 9 May vs Magesi FC, Seshego Stadium – 20:00
Saturday, 16 May vs Durban City, Orlando Stadium – 15:00
Saturday, 23 May vs Orbit College, Royal Bafokeng Stadium – 15:00

Agent rubbishes Mbule Orlando Pirates exit talk

Despite rumours of a “falling out,” agent Mike Makaab clarified on March 5 that Sipho Mbule’s recent absence from matchday squads (including the Soweto Derby win) is owing to a minor injury rather than anything disciplinary in nature.

Also read: Former Orlando Pirates star will cost R57 million

Saleng could provide an ironic twist for Orlando Pirates

After his Orlando Pirates career fizzled out in acrimony, Monnapule Saleng enjoyed a decent loan stint with Orbit College. The mercuirial winger chipped in with two goals and three assists in 13 appearances for the PSL strugglers, and then sealed a permanent switch to Sundowns. He showed glimpses of his best on debut for the Brazilians against Sekhukhune, claiming an assist and linking up well with Iqraam Rayners. By Sundowns’ incredibly high standards, they’ve not been at their best in 2025-26. How ironic, then, that the addition of ex-Pirates man Saleng could help them get over the line for a ninth consecutive crown.