Exciting prospect of Mbuthuma and Mofokeng leading Orlando Pirates attack against Galaxy

Orlando Pirates are braced for another important midweek Betway Premiership match as they host TS Galaxy at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday evening.

Just two days after securing their place in the next round of the CAF Champions League with a resounding 4-0 victory over Lesotho’s Lioli, the Buccaneers turn their attention back to domestic affairs, eager to extend a remarkable run of form. With the season unfolding intriguingly, the clash promises to be an exhilarating contest as both teams look to claim three vital points.

Currently, the league table reflects the closely matched nature of the two squads, with only one point separating them. TS Galaxy arrive in Soweto seated comfortably sixth on the league standings, having staged a stunning turnaround following a rocky start to the 2025/26 campaign, which saw them suffer back-to-back defeats.

However, Galaxy have found their rhythm, going unbeaten in their last five matches and securing an impressive 13 points from a possible 15.

Galaxy’s recent away performances have been particularly notable. They have amassed seven points on the road, with victories over Chippa United and Orbit College contributing to their status as the league’s highest scorers away from home, with eight goals to their name.

Their unbeaten streak was briefly interrupted by a draw against Richards Bay, but they remain a formidable opponent. Galaxy may, however, have to manage without experienced striker Sedwyn George, who has been sidelined since August with an ankle injury.

Pirates hope to continue building momentum, riding high on a six-match unbeaten streak in all competitions. In a weekend fixture, they not only secured their progression in the Champions League but did so emphatically, scoring four goals on home turf.

This success marks a significant turnaround after the team struggled in the lower half of the table earlier in the season. The Buccaneers have garnered 12 league points from their last four outings without conceding a goal, transforming their campaign from one of uncertainty to solid aspirations for a top-four finish.

A concern remains, however, as their scoring prowess has not fully translated into home matches; they have only netted twice in three league games at Orlando Stadium, including recent narrow victories against Stellenbosch and Orbit College.

Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou is brimming with enthusiasm as he prepares to introduce his latest find, Yanele Mbuthuma, in the starting line-up. The 23-year-old forward made his mark on Saturday by coming off the bench to significantly influence the game against Lesotho’s Lioli FC, contributing two goals to help secure a commanding 4-0 victory.

His performance has sent a clear message to the technical team, and he is ready to seize his moment on the pitch after spending considerable time on the bench since joining the club.

Reflecting on Mbuthuma’s impactful performance, Ouaddou expressed his satisfaction with the young talent.

“Mbuthuma is a young player. He is one of the talented players in South Africa. I think the scouting department of the club did a good job bringing him to the club,” said Ouaddou.

He further elaborated on how the player’s addition has diversified the team’s attacking options: “Now the attacking dimension of the club is different; the number of options has increased as well.

"We are trying and pushing him to be a top player, and he is doing well.”

Despite the promising start, the coach maintains a careful approach with Mbuthuma, insisting that there is still room for growth: “We keep on pushing him to be perfect.

"I am happy about his performance against the Lesotho visitors, but we still have work because he is still young.”

Adding further excitement to the upcoming match, Pirates are also likely to welcome back dynamic 20-year-old attacker Relebohile Mofokeng. Mofokeng played a vital role in Pirates’ midweek 1-0 victory over Siwelele FC but was absent from the squad against Lioli due to a minor injury.

Fortunately, this knock is not serious, paving the way for his potential return against Galaxy.