Orlando Pirates face defensive and midfield test despite strong start

Orlando Pirates’ impressive start to the season has exposed weaknesses in defence and midfield that coach Abdeslam Ouaddou must address as they begin their 2026 CAF Champions League campaign.

The Sea Robbers travel to face La Cure Sylvester on Sunday in the first leg of the preliminary round, having established themselves at the top of the Betway Premiership and reached the MTN8 final, where they will meet arch-rivals Mamelodi Sundowns.

Pirates have made an excellent start under Ouaddou, scoring 16 goals and conceding only twice in their seven matches. Their attacking play has been clinical, while their defensive record suggests they have been difficult to break down.

They strengthened that impression with a convincing 4-0 victory over Kruger United in their most recent league fixture. La Cure Sylvester will therefore be aware of the quality Pirates possess, particularly with the South African side carrying considerable momentum into their continental campaign.

Yet the scoreline against Kruger did not tell the whole story. Pirates were exposed on several occasions towards the end of the first half, and a more clinical opponent could have taken advantage of those opportunities.

That vulnerability has been compounded by the absence of key midfielders. Thalente Mbatha and Sihle Nduli are both out injured, while Makhehleni Makhaula has found himself on the bench or in the stands.

Thapelo Mokobodi has become a trusted presence for Ouaddou and impressed during his first full start. However, the demands of a crowded schedule could test the midfielder’s consistency, making rotation an important consideration for the Moroccan coach.

Mokobodi’s workload is particularly significant because Pirates are now competing on several fronts. Alongside their league commitments and the MTN8 final, they must negotiate the early stages of the 2026 CAF Champions League, increasing the intensity and frequency of their matches.

Makhaula, despite being 36 and no longer possessing the pace of his younger years, could still provide a valuable option. His experience and aggression could help ease the pressure on Mokobodi, while also allowing Pirates to control matches more effectively.

The defensive issues are linked to the midfield absences. Without the usual balance and protection in front of the back line, Pirates have looked less cohesive than their results suggest. Their opening weeks have been highly successful, but the underlying gaps could become more costly against stronger opposition.

Ouaddou has described his team as “cruising”, and the club have plenty to celebrate after their early-season performances. However, maintaining that progress will require more than attacking efficiency. Pirates must improve their defensive organisation and restore greater stability in midfield if they are to sustain their domestic form and make a strong start in Africa.