Orlando Pirates name starting XI for Betway Premiership opener against Milford FC

Orlando Pirates begin the defence of their Betway Premiership title against newly promoted Milford FC on Saturday afternoon, with the champions naming a starting XI that includes Sebastian Pedersen and Oswin Appollis.

The match will be played on 1 August 2026 at the Orlando Amstel Arena, as Orlando Pirates launch their first league campaign since ending a 14-year wait for the Premiership trophy.

The Buccaneers secured the title last season by edging rivals Mamelodi Sundowns on the final day. They now start the new campaign against a Milford side appearing in the top flight for the first time after earning promotion through the play-offs.

Orlando Pirates have undergone significant change during the off-season. Head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has seen Relebohile Mofokeng leave the club for Belgian side Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, while the champions have added eight new players to their squad.

Among those arrivals is Norwegian striker Sebastian Pedersen, who starts in attack for the opening fixture. Appollis and Mbuthuma are also named in the front line, with Moremi included in the attacking group.

The hosts’ midfield features Dansin, Mbatha and Maswanganyi, while Hotto is included on the left side of the starting XI. The defensive selection consists of Sibisi, Seema and Sebelebele, with Chaine in goal.

Milford FC, based in KwaZulu-Natal, had not confirmed their team when the line-ups were published. Their promotion represents the latest step in the club’s rise, but the squad has been strengthened by players who have not previously played in the top flight.

Those additions include Thabang Mabena, central midfielder Yanelisa Nomandela and defender Mnqobi Mbhele. None of the three has top-flight experience.

Orlando Pirates’ starting XI is:

Orlando Pirates: 24. Chaine, 5. Sibisi, 6. Seema, 36. Sebelebele, 7. Hotto, 46. Dansin, 16. Mbatha, 28. Maswanganyi, 11. Moremi, 12. Appollis, 9. Mbuthuma

Substitutes: 32. Dladla, 49. Kgositsile, 48. Masilela, 37. Zulu, 4. Mariko, 29. Mthiyane, 25. Radiopane, 23. Lungu, 19. Rapoo

Milford FC: To be confirmed.

The fixture gives Orlando Pirates an immediate opportunity to set the tone as champions, while Milford FC face one of the strongest possible tests on their first appearance in the Betway Premiership. The clubs meet at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday afternoon, with the Buccaneers seeking to begin their title defence with a win and Milford aiming to mark their top-flight debut with a strong performance.