Loaned-out Saleng absence adds intrigue ahead of Orlando Pirates clash
Premier Soccer League
Orlando Pirates look to build on recent improvements as they host Orbit College in the Betway Premiership, with Kamogelo Sebelebele, pictured, among the key performers driving their push for consistency. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
Orlando Pirates’ rocky start to the season is beginning to take shape as they prepare to host newcomers Orbit College in the Betway Premiership at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday (7.30pm kick-off).
The Buccaneers arrive on the back of an MTN8 semi-final triumph over a resilient Mamelodi Sundowns side. After both legs ended 2-2, goalkeeper Sipho Chaine emerged as the hero, helping Pirates secure a 4-1 victory in the penalty shootout.
The win booked the club’s fourth consecutive MTN8 final, setting up another clash with Stellenbosch FC — the same Cape Winelands side they beat 1-0 in last week’s league encounter and 3-1 in last season’s MTN8 final.
That league victory helped restore confidence in a squad that had struggled early, representing a small but important step in their pursuit of the league title, which has eluded the club since 2012.
Kamogelo Sebelebele has been one of the season’s standout signings, scoring three goals in three matches. The former TS Galaxy midfielder has quickly earned the trust of coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, who has deployed him in multiple roles, making him a key figure as the team works to find its rhythm after early-season setbacks.
Despite being tipped as one of the favourites, Pirates stumbled in their first two league games, losing 1-0 to Sekhukhune United and 2-1 to Marumo Gallants, raising questions over squad readiness. Ouaddou’s approach of blending returning regulars with new additions has gradually brought stability, and the team has appeared more composed since those early defeats.
Orbit College, meanwhile, will be eager to add to their first points of the season, but after a 1-0 loss to AmaZulu in their opener and a 3-0 defeat to Sekhukhune, they face a challenging task against a Pirates side chasing its second league win.
The fixture carries added interest due to historical links between the two clubs, which have exchanged players in the past. Adding another layer to the story, Monnapule Saleng, the sidelined Pirates fan favourite currently out on loan, will be unable to face his parent club because of loan restrictions.
Saleng had hoped to make an impact at his new team, but his absence leaves the Buccaneers in a strong position as they aim to regain consistency and build momentum in what is an important campaign.