Orlando Pirates name starting XI for Carling Knockout Cup clash with Milford

Orlando Pirates will begin their Carling Knockout Cup title defence against Milford at Orlando Amstel Arena tonight, with both clubs having confirmed their starting line-ups for the round-of-16 tie.

The Buccaneers have already faced Milford this season, beating the newcomers in the opening match of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign. They will now look to progress in the competition and take another step towards retaining the trophy.

Abdeslam Ouaddou’s side go into the match with confidence after becoming the only South African team to qualify for this season’s CAF Champions League. Pirates secured their place with a 4-0 victory over African Stars, completing a 5-0 aggregate success.

However, the hosts will also be seeking a response after their MTN8 final disappointment. They were beaten 2-0 by Mamelodi Sundowns in that match.

Milford face the difficult challenge of trying to eliminate the defending champions, but their recent league form offers encouragement. They have gone unbeaten in their past four matches and will hope that run can provide momentum against Pirates.

Pirates will start with Chaine in goal, while Hotto, Seema, Zulu and Sigomoshe form the defensive line. Mbatha, Selepe and Mokobodi are included in midfield, with Selepe, Lungu, Moremi and Makgopa named in the attacking positions.

The Pirates starting XI is: Chaine, Hotto, Seema, Zulu, Sigomoshe, Mbatha, Selepe, Mokobodi, Selepe, Lungu, Moremi, Makgopa.

Their substitutes are Dladla, Sibisi, Ndaba, Mthiyane, Dansin, Padime, Nkota, Appollis and Radiopane.

Milford’s line-up features Hleza, Bhengu, Khwanya, Cele, Mdluli, Mkhize, Nomandela, Chili, Zikakayo, Gxakoshe and Ndlabi.

The match gives Pirates the opportunity to start their cup defence with another victory over Milford, while the visitors will attempt to build on their unbeaten league run by producing an upset against the reigning champions.