Orlando Pirates handed Milford FC tie as busy season continues

Orlando Pirates will begin the defence of their Carling Knockout Cup title at home against Milford FC, with coach Abdeslam Ouaddou warning that the newly promoted side will provide a stern test.

The first-round draw was conducted at Langhams Lifestyle Estate in Fourways, Johannesburg, on Wednesday evening. Pirates were paired with Milford, who they have already beaten 2-0 in the 2026/27 Betway Premiership.

That victory came at Orlando in August, in the opening league fixture of the season, but Ouaddou does not expect the cup meeting to be straightforward.

The Pirates coach welcomed the benefit of playing in front of the club’s supporters while highlighting Milford’s organisation, discipline and intensity.

“Of course we want to win, because we play at home, in front of our fans. I think it’s a positive point. You know, football is unpredictable, especially Milford,” Ouaddou said.

“It’s a very good team, well coached, very organised, disciplined. They have this power, this energy that they brought from the lower level. They can run.”

Ouaddou said Milford had already demonstrated they could compete with established Betway Premiership teams when the sides met earlier this season.

“When we played the first game against them, I told you that not many teams are going to beat them. They really show the quality; they show the ambition to play against any team. And they are not scared,” he added.

Pirates balancing three competitions

Pirates are also competing in the CAF Champions League and the Betway Premiership, leaving Ouaddou focused on ensuring his squad is prepared for another demanding fixture.

“So, it will be a big challenge. And for us, of course, it will be very important to go through the next stage,” he said.

“But, as I said, we are playing many competitions. The Champions League, we are focusing on the Betway (Premiership) as well. So, we will have to find positive energy, resources and a balanced line-up to go and win that game.”

Before turning their attention to the Carling Knockout Cup, Pirates will travel to Botswana this weekend for a CAF Champions League second preliminary-round match against Namibian champions African Stars.

The Soweto club go into that continental assignment after strengthening their preparations with a 3-0 Betway Premiership victory over TS Galaxy on Tuesday.

The Carling Knockout Cup first round is due to take place on the weekend of October 24. The League will announce the final match dates and kick-off times at a later stage.