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

Orlando Pirates begin their CAF Champions League campaign against La Curve Waves in the first-leg of the first preliminary round at the Cote-d’Or National Sports Complex on Sunday.

The match, which kicks off at 13h30, marks Pirates’ third consecutive appearance in Africa’s leading club competition. The South African side will be aiming to progress further than last season, when they were eliminated by St Eloi Lupopo on post-match penalties in the second preliminary round.

That disappointing exit came after Pirates had reached the semi-finals in the previous edition, and the club are still seeking a second CAF Champions League title after becoming the first South African team to win the competition in 1995.

Pirates will enter the tie in strong form. They have reached the MTN8 final and currently lead the Betway Premiership, while remaining unbeaten in all competitions this season.

Their latest result strengthened that momentum, with the Buccaneers beating newly promoted Kruger United 4-0 in the Premiership in midweek. The victory came at Mbombela Stadium in Mpumalanga province and gives Pirates confidence before their opening continental fixture.

La Curve Waves, meanwhile, go into the match after recently winning the Mauritius FA Challenge Cup. However, their preparations have been affected by a lack of regular domestic football, with the national league inactive and the club unable to play consistently from week to week.

The match is a landmark occasion for Waves, who are making their debut in the CAF Champions League. Pirates will be expected to draw on their greater experience in the competition, although the hosts’ recent cup success provides them with a positive platform ahead of the first leg.

Pirates reached the final of the competition in 2013 but have not added to their 1995 triumph. They will now look to establish an advantage in Mauritius before the return fixture.

Orlando Pirates’ confirmed starting line-up is:

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

Substitutes: Dladla, Rapoo, Sebelebele, Makhaula, Mokobodi, Masilela, Kgositsile, Ngwato, Mbuthuma.

La Curve Waves’ starting line-up was not included in the confirmed team information provided ahead of kick-off.