Orlando Pirates have confirmed their starting line-up for their CAF Champions League second preliminary-round first-leg clash against African Stars of Namibia, with head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou making several important selections for the crucial continental encounter.

The Buccaneers enter the match determined to secure a positive result and strengthen their chances of advancing towards the group stages of Africa’s premier club competition. The encounter is being played at the Botswana National Stadium in Gaborone, with Pirates looking to make their experience count against the Namibian champions.

Sipho Chaine has been selected in goal, while Nkosinathi Sibisi and Lebone Seema form part of the defensive structure. Bulelani Sigomoshe and Nkosikhona Ndaba also feature in the starting XI as Pirates look to maintain defensive stability.

In midfield, Thalente Mbatha is included alongside Masindi Nemtajela and Simphiwe Masilela. The midfield selections will be expected to provide energy, control possession and help the Buccaneers dictate the tempo of the match.

Further forward, Tshepang Moremi, Oswin Appollis and Yanela Mbuthuma have been handed starting roles as Pirates look to pose an attacking threat. The confirmed line-up published by iDiski Times lists Chaine, Sibisi, Seema, Sigomoshe, Ndaba, Mbatha, Selepe, Masilela, Lungu, Moremi and Mbuthuma, highlighting some differences in the personnel initially circulated ahead of kick-off.

Pirates secured their place in the second preliminary round after overcoming Mauritian side La Cure Waves 3-1 on aggregate. Despite being held to a goalless draw in the second leg, their advantage from the first encounter proved enough to send them through.

African Stars, meanwhile, advanced after negotiating a competitive tie against Gabonese opponents AS Mangasport.

Pirates will draw confidence from their recent 3-0 victory over TS Galaxy in the Betway Premiership. However, Ouaddou will know that continental football presents a different challenge, making concentration and defensive discipline essential.

The Buccaneers will therefore be aiming to secure a strong first-leg result, preferably with a clean sheet, before the return fixture. A positive performance in Gaborone would give Pirates valuable momentum as they continue their pursuit of a place in the CAF Champions League group stages.

Source

https://x.com/i/status/2111428106166689952