Orlando Pirates coach Mandla Ncikazi is confident they will return back to winning ways in the CAF Confederation Cup – here’s how they line up against Royal Leopard.
Pirates come into the game after a 3-2 defeat against Al-Ittihad in Benghazi last week and they face the eSwatini side who lost 2-0 in JS Saoura away from home.
But Pirates are still top of Group B, having secured three points against the Algerians in the group opener and they have an advantage of playing in South Africa as they face off at Mbombela Stadium.
This is an alternative venue for Leopard, whose home stadium was not deemed fit to host international fixtures by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
“We are very cautious of our opponents, a very good team, a very physical team police force team, you can see in their structure and conditioning,” he said ahead of the game.
“How they play, they play in a block, very good when they shape with their full-backs and resolute centre-backs and defensive midfielder.
“Very strong team, on top they have a South African [Thabiso Mokenkoane] who plays as a leading striker – who played for AmaTuks before.
“Whether they use him or [Barry] Steenkamp, they are very strong, fast wingers with [Muzi] Dlamini on the right and [Andy] Magagula who I think is their best player.
“So one, it’s a team that’s confident, resolute in defending, comfortable in a block and on the counter, prepared to defend and they have the physique that allows them to play like that. It’s important for us as Pirates not to take anything likely.
“We have to be at our best, but I’m confident we can get a result.”
This is the first time Leopards reach the group stage of the competition and they will be aiming for their first-ever goal and points this evening at 21h00.
Royal Leopard XI: tbc
Orlando Pirates XI: Mpontshane, Jele, Ndah, Shandu, Mako, Monare, Mosele, Dlamini, Lorch, Hotto, Peprah
Subs: Sandilands, Dzvukamanja, Lepasa, Maela, Jooste, Makaringe, Makgaka, Mhango, Motshwari
