Pirates seek fourth win over Sekhukhune in Carling Knockout quarter-final

Orlando Pirates will aim to extend their perfect record against Sekhukhune United this season when the sides meet in the Carling Knockout Cup quarter-finals at the Amstel Arena on Saturday afternoon.

The Buccaneers have won all three previous meetings between the clubs during the current campaign, giving them a strong record to carry into the latest contest.

Pirates defeated Sekhukhune in the Betway Premiership before overcoming them in both legs of their MTN8 semi-final tie. Those results give the Soweto club a psychological advantage, although the prospect of a place in the Carling Knockout semi-finals means neither side can afford to rely on past performances.

The match also presents Pirates with another test in their defence of the Carling Knockout title. The single-match knockout format leaves little margin for error, and Abdeslam Ouaddou’s side will need to produce another organised and disciplined display to progress.

Ouaddou is expected to name a competitive starting line-up as Pirates look to maintain their recent momentum. Sipho Chaine, Lebone Seema and Tshepang Moremi are among the players who could be selected from the start.

Other players who have featured regularly in the coach’s plans could also be involved as Pirates negotiate another demanding fixture. The final selection will determine whether Ouaddou keeps faith with the combination that has helped the club maintain its advantage over Sekhukhune this season.

Predicted Orlando Pirates starting XI:

Sipho Chaine; Bulelani Sigomoshe, Lebone Seema, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Nkosikhona Ndaba; Oswin Appollis, Thalente Mbatha, Thapelo Mokobodi; Simphiwe Masilela, Yanela Mbuthuma, Tshepang Moremi.