Orlando Pirates Eye Another Victory as They Face Struggling Siwelele

Rethabile Nyelele23 September , 2025

1 2 minutes read

Orlando Pirates Target Third Straight Win in Premiership Clash with Siwelele — Image: Backpagepix

Orlando Pirates return to Betway Premiership action on Tuesday evening. They travel to the Free State Stadium to face Siwelele FC, with kick-off scheduled for 7:30pm. The Buccaneers will be eager to stretch their winning run as they continue their pursuit of a long-awaited league title.

Fresh from a 3-0 CAF Champions League preliminary round first-leg win over Lioli FC of Lesotho on Saturday, Pirates shift their focus back to domestic duties. Their last Premiership outing also ended in a 3-0 triumph, this time against Chippa United at the end of August. The Soweto giants will be looking to carry that form into Tuesday’s clash.

Siwelele’s Struggles Continue

Their opponents, Siwelele FC, are enduring a turbulent start to life in the topflight. Having purchased the status of Supersport United at the beginning of the season, the Lehlohonolo Seema-led side sits 14th on the log, struggling for rhythm and stability. Matters worsened with the recent departure of assistant coach Andre Arendse. Former Bloemfontein Celtic defender Willem Jackson has since stepped in to support Seema in hopes of steadying the ship.

The fixture also carries extra spice, as the two teams are set to meet again in the Carling Knockout Cup, making this encounter a potential preview of another high-stakes battle.

Orlando Pirates Finding Their Rhythm

Pirates did not enjoy the best of fortunes earlier this season in Bloemfontein, where they fell to a 2-1 defeat against Marumo Gallants. However, under coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, the team has bounced back strongly. The Moroccan tactician credits the turnaround to the players’ belief in his methods and his commitment to keeping the entire squad engaged.

“When you’re part of Orlando Pirates and competing in multiple competitions, it’s important to manage players,” Ouaddou explained.
“You have to involve everyone to earn the trust of the group. We are playing frequently and across several tournaments, so squad freshness is crucial if we want to be successful.”

New Signings Making Their Mark

The Buccaneers have also been among the most active teams in the transfer window, and the impact of their reinforcements is beginning to reflect in their results. Despite the competition for places, Ouaddou is confident he has the right balance to challenge on all fronts.

“I am happy with the group I have,” he said. “They have a fantastic mentality, and the dressing room is one of the best I’ve worked with. The players are committed, and right now, I am pleased with the squad at my disposal.”

High Expectations in Soweto

With Siwelele struggling to find consistency and Pirates in confident mood, the Soweto giants head into the encounter as clear favourites. Victory would not only extend their winning streak but also strengthen their push for a first Premiership title since 2012.