Orlando Pirates Drop Five Key Players from CAF Champions League Squad
Orlando Pirates will begin their CAF Champions League campaign this weekend against Lioli at the Free State Stadium, but they will do so without five notable players who have been left out of their registered squad.
Five Big Names Miss Out
The Buccaneers submitted their final 40-man squad in compliance with CAF regulations, leaving out a handful of players who are still regaining match fitness. Among those omitted are:
Olisa Ndah
Thabiso Sesane
Makhehlene Makhaula
Selaelo Rasebotja
Sifiso Luthuli
These absences mean head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou will need to make tactical adjustments as the Soweto giants look to make a strong start on the continent.
Also read: Orlando Pirates Lift Fourth Straight MTN8 Trophy as Ouaddou Survives Doubts
Orlando Pirates Aim for a Second CAF Star
Pirates remain determined to bring home a second CAF Champions League title, having last lifted the trophy in 1995. The team comes into the clash with confidence after lifting the MTN8 title earlier this season, and fans are eager to see their side replicate domestic success on the African stage.
Ouaddou will rely on proven performers such as Evidence Makgopa, Patrick Maswanganyi, Kabelo Dlamini, and goalkeeper Sipho Chaine to spearhead the campaign.
Squad Numbers Adjusted for CAF
CAF’s strict registration rules also mean several players will be wearing new jersey numbers for the competition. This adjustment is intended to standardise the squad list and avoid duplication, a common requirement for African club tournaments.
Lioli Clash Sets the Tone
Pirates’ opening match against Lioli is crucial to setting the tone for the rest of their campaign. Playing at the Free State Stadium gives the Buccaneers a home advantage, and fans will expect a dominant performance to build early momentum.
Also read: Orlando Pirates Refuse to Settle for Second Best
Fringe Players Get a Big Chance
The absence of Ndah, Makhaula, Sesane, Rasebotja, and Luthuli could provide opportunities for fringe players to step up and prove their worth on the continental stage. Ouaddou may rotate his squad to test new combinations, which could unearth fresh talent and tactical flexibility for the crucial later rounds.
With an experienced core and renewed confidence after domestic success, Orlando Pirates remain one of the favourites to go deep in the CAF Champions League – but they will have to do it without five of their key men.
