R16 million tournament, favourable fixtures

Today’s Friday Orlando Pirates news wrap looks at an exciting tournament in America and reasons the Sea Robbers might edge Sundowns out for the title.

Pirates are heading to America to compete in the TST Tournament

The Sea Robbers join LaLiga side Villarreal and Spanish Liga MX giants Club America in the 48-team event, which takes on a winner-takes-all format. The eventual champions will scoop $1 million (R16.77 million).

Is Sundowns’ fixture list a reason for Orlando Pirates to be optimistic?

Although Sundowns are on a four-match winning run across all competitions, their fixture list isn’t as kind. The Brazilians have awkward-looking assignments coming up against 14th-placed Marumo Gallants and fourth-placed Durban City, who have a genuine shot at finishing in the top three. A match against Chippa on 18 April could also pose issues, seeing as though the Chilli Boys are fighting for their Betway Premiership lives. Both Sundowns and Pirates, intriguingly, still face Kaizer Chiefs. The Glamour Boys won’t be kings this season but could be the king-makers in the title race, one way or another. Pirates’ fixture list is predominantly against mid-table sides, likely only playing for pride. Rele Mofokeng has been a key operator this term with four goals and five assists in the league.