Six Orlando Pirates players aiming to force their way into Abdeslam Ouaddou’s plans

The FIFA international break gives six Orlando Pirates players an opportunity to strengthen their claims for more regular first-team football when the Betway Premiership resumes.

Makhehleni Makhaula, Kabelo Dlamini, Tapelo Xoki, Masindi Nemtajela, Mohau Nkota and Sebastian Pedersen have all found opportunities limited, and will be hoping to use the pause in domestic action to impress head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.

Since taking charge of the Buccaneers, Ouaddou has overseen a significant change in the squad. New signings and younger players have made an impact, increasing competition for places across the team.

The coach has also shown a willingness to rotate his players. However, that approach has not resulted in consistent opportunities for some of the club’s more established names, who now face a fight to feature more prominently.

Midfield places under pressure

Makhaula and Dlamini, both experienced members of the Pirates squad, will need to show the technical team that they can still make an important contribution.

The pair have previously held prominent roles at the club, but increased competition in midfield has made regular selection more difficult. The international break offers them time to work towards a return to contention.

Nemtajela will also be looking to make an impression. The midfielder was part of the Pirates squad that enjoyed success last season and will be aiming to re-establish himself as Ouaddou continues to assess his options in the centre of the pitch.

Xoki faces a similar challenge in defence. The experienced centre-back has struggled to secure opportunities in the current set-up and will be hoping to convince the coach that he should be considered more regularly.

Attackers face competition

Nkota will be keen to build on his return from Saudi Arabia and remind the technical team of the qualities that made him an exciting prospect before his departure.

The winger is competing for a place in an attack that contains several options, making opportunities difficult to secure. His task will be to show that he can play a significant role in the team’s plans.

Pedersen is another forward hoping for more chances to demonstrate his ability. With competition for attacking positions at Pirates, he will need to take advantage of any opportunities that come his way.

The break allows the squad to regroup and work on different aspects of its game, while also giving players short of minutes a chance to improve their position.

Pirates remain involved on multiple fronts, meaning opportunities should emerge as the season progresses. For these six players, the immediate challenge is to persuade Ouaddou that they deserve a larger role.