How Orlando Pirates Could Line Up - Predicted XI to face TS Galaxy with Key Man Doubtful
Orlando Pirates are set to take on TS Galaxy in the Premier Soccer League at Orlando Amstel Arena on 13 October 2026, with kickoff at 6 PM SAST. Following a recent MTN 8 Final defeat, Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou is expected to make tactical changes, especially in defence due to injuries. Key players such as Sipho Chaine and Yanela Mbuthuma are likely starters, while injuries sideline both Sihle Ndulu and Andre De Jong. Evidence Makgopa returns as a substitute after surgery. Pirates aim to bounce back with a refreshed lineup.
- Orlando Pirates face TS Galaxy on 13 October 2026 after a defeat in the MTN 8 Final.
- Injuries to key players prompt tactical changes, especially in defence and midfield.
- The predicted starting XI includes returns for Oswin Appollis, Simphiwe Masilela, and Nkosikhona Ndaba.
Orlando Pirates could recall winger Oswin Appollis against TS Galaxy on Tuesday evening (Getty Images).
Orlando Pirates face TS Galaxy in the Premier Soccer League on 13 October 2026 at Orlando Amstel Arena. Kickoff is at 7.30 PM SAST.
Below you can find the predicted starting XI from coach Abdeslam Ouaddou as his side looks to bounce back from a defeat in the MTN 8 Final.
GOALKEEPER
Sipho Chaine is a certain starter in goal. He was arguably the Pirates man of the match on Saturday.
DEFENCE
At right back, Kamogelo Sebelebele went off injured in the last match. He is the only senior right back in the squad and his absence would leave a real hole. Ghampani Lungu may drop into that position from his usual right winger position.
Nkosinathi Sibisi and Lebone Seema look set to remain as the centre backs.
Deon Hotto has been rotated a lot more this season. Nkosikhona Ndaba is tipped to get a start at left back in this one.
MIDFIELD
Thapelo Mokobodi is likely to keep his place, with Thalente Mbatha as his partner. Pirates are blessed with a plethora of midfielders, and Mthetheleli Mthiyane and Camren Dansin are also options in the double pivot.
Young playmaker Simphiwe Masilela made an impact in the MTN 8 Final and could be used from the start in this one.
Both Sihle Nduli and Andre De Jong are ruled out due to injuries.
ATTACK
Yanela Mbuthuma is likely to keep his place as the number nine. Evidence Makgopa is just back from surgery and is likely to feature as a substitute.
In the wide areas, Oswin Appollis was benched for the cup final despite excelling on international duty. He could start on the right, with Lungu dropping to fullback.
Tshepang Moremi will start on the opposite side. Mohau Nkota made his debut after rejoining the club on loan, but his match fitness is still lacking.
Predicted Starting XI (4-2-3-1):
Sipho Chaine - Ghampani Lungu, Lebone Seema, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Nkosikhona Ndaba - Thapelo Mokobodi, Thalente Mbatha - Oswin Appollis, Simphiwe Masilela, Tshepang Moremi - Yanela Mbuthuma.
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