Orlando Pirates name starting XI for Betway Premiership meeting with Sekhukhune United

Orlando Pirates and Sekhukhune United have announced their starting line-ups for tonight’s Betway Premiership match at the Orlando Amstel Arena, just days after Pirates claimed a narrow victory in the sides’ MTN8 semi-final first leg.

The Buccaneers won 1-0 at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday and will meet Sekhukhune again as they attempt to strengthen their position at the top of the league table.

Pirates moved into first place after a convincing 3-0 away victory over Chippa United at Kings Park Stadium. They are aiming to extend their advantage over Kaizer Chiefs, Mamelodi Sundowns and AmaZulu to three points with another victory.

Sekhukhune United, known as Babina Noko, are fifth in the Betway Premiership with six points from their opening three matches. They have won two of those games, including a 2-0 success against Polokwane City in the Limpopo Derby.

A victory for Cedric Kaze’s side at eSgodini would lift them temporarily into second place. Kaizer Chiefs, Mamelodi Sundowns and AmaZulu are all due to play tomorrow, meaning the league standings could change again after those fixtures.

There has been little to separate the teams in their previous meetings. Pirates and Sekhukhune have each recorded four wins in 10 encounters, while the other two matches ended in draws.

Pirates have selected Chaine in goal, with Sebelebele, Seema, Zulu and Hotto forming the rest of the defensive line. Mokobodi and Mthiyane are included in midfield, while Msendami, Masilela, Appollis and Radiopane complete the starting XI.

The Pirates substitutes are Dladla, Chabatsane, Rapoo, Selepe, Mmolai, Ngwato, Kgositsile, Lungu and Pedersen.

Sekhukhune will start with Buthelezi, Ndlozi, Matsimbi, Cardoso and Kazeem. Khiba, Mkhize, Ramabu and Rammala are also named in the line-up, with Mojela and Ndlovu leading the attack.

No substitutes were listed for Sekhukhune United in the team announcement.

The match gives both sides another opportunity to gain an advantage in a fixture that has remained closely contested over the years. Pirates will be looking to build on their MTN8 success and their strong league start, while Sekhukhune will hope their recent 2-0 derby win and six-point tally can provide momentum in the latest meeting between the clubs.