Orlando Pirates Prepare for League Return After Long Break
Orlando Pirates will be hoping the long break between fixtures does not disrupt their form as they return to Betway Premiership action. The Soweto giants face Chippa United on Tuesday at 19:30, marking their re-entry into the second third of the league season.
This will be their first competitive match in 17 days, following a Carling Knockout semi-final clash against Richards Bay FC. In league terms, Pirates have not played for 20 days. The break comes at a critical stage as the team looks to maintain momentum.
League success remains the priority for Orlando Pirates this season. The club last won the PSL title in the 2011/12 campaign. Despite the long title drought, Pirates have made a strong start this season, collecting 22 points from 10 games. Historical PSL trends suggest the team is likely to finish in the top three, but the ultimate goal is the championship.
A win against Chippa United, followed by a victory at Durban City on Saturday, would lift Pirates to 28 points. This would place them joint-top with Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs, although the rivals would have played one more game. By Christmas, Pirates will have played 12 league matches, while their main competitors will have played 13.
Without continental commitments, Orlando Pirates can fully focus on domestic competitions. The MTN8 title is already secured, and the Carling Knockout remains on the calendar with a match scheduled for December 6. This allows Abdeslam Ouaddou to prepare his squad with the aim of sustaining form and pushing for the league crown.
