Orlando Pirates FC are gearing up for a crucial 2025/26 CAF Champions League campaign.
Last season, the Buccaneers made it to the semi-finals before going down against the eventual champions Pyramids FC.
Now, a new challenge beckons for the Buccaneers, under a new coach and with a relatively new squad.
Orlando Pirates have made 15 new signings for the upcoming season. Many of their new players will be playing in the tournament for the very first time.
Orlando Pirates confirm CAF Champions League jersey numbers
The Buccaneers begin their continental journey with a tricky fixture against Lesotho side Lioli FC. This marks the first leg in the opening preliminary round.
Now, let’s take a look at what jersey numbers Orlando Pirates players will be donning on the continent.
- Melusi Buthelezi – 1
- Tshepo Mashiloane – 2
- Relebohile Mofokeng – 3
- Abdoulaye Mariko – 4
- Nkosinathi Sibisi – 5
- Mbekezeli Mbokazi – 6
- Deon Hotto – 7
- Sihle Nduli – 8
- Yanela Mbuthuma – 9
- Patrick Maswanganyi – 10
- Tshepang Moremi – 11
- Oswin Appollis – 12
- Nkosikhona Ndaba -13
- Thabiso Lebitso – 14
- Masindi Nemtajela – 15
- Thalente Mbatha – 16
- Evidence Makgopa – 17
- Kabelo Dlamini – 18
- Tshegofatso Mabasa – 19
- Simphiwe Selepe – 20
- Deano van Rooyen – 21
- Sipho Mbule – 22
- Siyabonga Ndlozi – 23
- Sipho Chaine – 24
- Bandile Shandu – 26
- Tapelo Xoki – 27
- Kamogelo Sebelebele – 28
- Sinoxolo Kwayiba – 29
- Cemran Dansin – 30
- Siyabonga Dladla – 31
- Lebone Seema – 32
- Boitumelo Radiopane – 33
Bucs CAFCL journey begins
First up for Orlando Pirates is a trip to the Free State Stadium to face Lioli in the opening preliminary round. The return leg will take place a week later.
The Buccaneers are expected to qualify for the group stages once again this season. They’ll have to be at their very best to defeat Lioni and qualify for the second preliminary round.