Buccaneers begin quest for second trophy of the season

Orlando Pirates begin their search for a second piece of silverware this season on Saturday as they face Siwelele in their Carling Knockout opener at Orlando Stadium in Soweto.

Kick-off is at 3pm CAT.

CURRENT FORM

Orlando Pirates have found their form and are unbeaten in their last 10 games across all competitions after defeating TS Galaxy 2-0 at the Orlando Stadium on Tuesday.

In last year’s Carling Knockout, the Buccaneers were bounced in the first round by newcomers and eventual champions Magesi 3-2 at the Orlando Stadium. Down by three goals at halftime, the Bucs nearly clawed their way back as Kabelo Dlamini and Evidence Makgopa netted in the dying stages, but it was not enough.

Pirates have not laid hands on the PSL’s knockout tournament silverware since claiming the 2011-12 Telkom Knockout title and will be looking to add the Carling Knockout trophy to the club’s cabinet.

Siwelele managed to collect their second victory of the Betway Premiership season on Sunday after a seven-game streak that included one draw and six losses.

The Bloemfontein-based side defeated Marumo Gallants 1-0 in the city’s new derby at the Dr Rantlai Petrus Stadium in Mangaung, claiming their first win since the first round of fixtures in the league.

Siwelele sit 12th on the log and will hope to keep the momentum rolling in the club’s first Carling Knockout encounter.

WHAT WAS SAID

Following their victory over Marumo Gallants on Sunday, Siwelele head coach Lehlohonolo Seema stated that his team is showing promise but still have a way to go.

“We are not cooking, we are watering. When you don’t play at your best, but you win, and the fans are happy. So for us, that is a big positive,” said Seema.

“If we can fight like this at home, and fight even harder away from home, then we should have a good season. It is a process; this team is still developing, but wins like this go a long way.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Orlando Pirates - Evidence Makgopa: Back in the starting lineup and on the scoresheet, Evidence Makgopa bagged his first league goal of the season from the penalty spot against TS Galaxy on Tuesday. The striker’s size and aerial ability will make him tough for Siwelele to contain.

Siwelele - Tebogo Potsane: Tebogo Potsane opened his account for the 2025-26 season with the winning goal in the Bloemfontein derby against Marumo Gallants on Sunday. The 32-year-old midfielder will be looking to add to his tally on Saturday.

HEAD-TO-HEAD (Cup results)

This will be the first cup meeting between Orlando Pirates and Siwelele FC.