Orlando Pirates are preparing for a high-stakes CAF Champions League semi-final clash against Egyptian giants Pyramids FC. The tie will be played over two legs, with both teams eyeing a spot in the prestigious final.
The first leg takes place at Orlando Stadium on Saturday, 19 April, with kickoff scheduled for 18:00. The return leg will be played in Egypt on Friday, 25 April. It’s a massive test for the Sea Robbers, who will need to deliver strong performances both home and away to progress.
Solid Defence and a Rising Star in Attack
In recent fixtures, Pirates have shown impressive defensive organization. The central defensive trio of Tapelo Xoki, Nkosinathi Sibisi, and Mbekezeli Mbokazi performed admirably in their quarter-final clash against MC Alger. Despite facing a fast and dangerous attack, they managed to neutralize threats with discipline and composure.
Head coach Jose Riveiro made only one change to his starting eleven for the second leg of that tie, bringing in young forward Mohau Nkota in place of Kabelo Dlamini. That decision paid off handsomely—Nkota scored the only goal of the game in Algeria, securing Pirates’ spot in the semi-finals.
At just 21 years old, Nkota has already made history. He’s the youngest Orlando Pirates player to score three away goals in a single CAF Champions League campaign. Based on his recent form and match-winning contribution, Nkota is likely to retain his place in the starting XI for the first leg against Pyramids.
Pyramids’ Danger Man: Fiston Mayele
The Buccaneers will have to be especially wary of Pyramids’ star striker, Fiston Mayele. The 30-year-old Congolese international has been in superb form this season. With six goals in nine Champions League matches, he has proven himself as one of the competition’s top scorers. Mayele boasts 19 goals in 33 appearances overall in Africa’s top club tournament and has earned 19 caps for the DR Congo national team.
Interestingly, Mayele has also been linked with a move to Kaizer Chiefs, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this semi-final. If Pirates are to reach the final, keeping him quiet over both legs will be crucial.
The stage is set for a thrilling contest between two African heavyweights.
