Orlando Pirates name starting XI for CAF Champions League opener against La Cure Waves

Orlando Pirates have named their starting XI for their CAF Champions League first preliminary-round tie against La Cure Waves at the Cote-d’Or National Sports Complex on 5 September 2026.

The South African side begin their continental campaign against a La Cure Waves team making its debut in the competition after winning the Mauritian top-flight title for the first time last season.

Pirates will be determined to take control of the tie in the opening leg after missing out on the group stage last season. The Buccaneers were eliminated by fellow debutants St Eloi Lupopo on penalties.

Abdeslam Ouaddou has selected a line-up that includes Chaine, Zulu, Seema, Hotto, Derbyshire, Selepe, Mthiyane, Dansin, Appollis, Msendami and Radiopane.

The Pirates substitutes are Dladla, Rapoo, Sebelebele, Makhaula, Mokobodi, Masilela, Kgositsile, Ngwato and Mbuthuma.

Orlando Pirates starting XI

Chaine, Zulu, Seema, Hotto, Derbyshire, Selepe, Mthiyane, Dansin, Appollis, Msendami, Radiopane.

The match comes shortly after Pirates’ domestic commitments, with Ouaddou’s side having featured in the Betway Premiership in midweek. They beat Kruger United 4-0 on Tuesday before travelling for their opening Champions League fixture.

That result will have provided momentum, but Pirates’ recent continental away record offers a warning. Their last away match in the CAF Champions League ended in a 3-0 defeat by St Eloi Lupopo, the result that ultimately contributed to their failure to reach the group stage after the tie was decided on penalties.

La Cure Waves represent a different challenge, but they also arrive as newcomers to the competition. Their first-ever Mauritian league title earned them a place in the preliminary round, where they will face one of the most established clubs in South African football.

Pirates will be looking for a disciplined performance in the first leg before the return fixture, although the source information does not provide a date or venue for the second match.

The tie is part of the opening preliminary round of the CAF Champions League, with the first meeting scheduled for 5 September 2026 at the Cote-d’Or National Sports Complex.