Orlando Pirates vs Bloemfontein Celtic Predictions & Tips - Bucs to beat battling Bloem Celtic

Pirates are finding some good form in recent weeks and are looking more solid defensively. Celtic are in terrible away form and are struggling to score goals on their travels. I am backing Pirates to win this match to nil.

Orlando Pirates hold an advantage of 20-12 over 41 meetings against Bloemfontein Celtic with nine draws.

Their last meeting was in December as Pirates won 2-1 in the MTN8 cup final at a neutral venue.

Pirates sit 4th in the PSL table after an inconsistent season with eight draws in their 18 matches. They are seven points behind Mamelodi Sundowns having played two more matches.

Pirates picked up a 2-0 home victory against Cape Town City and then 3-0 away and 1-0 home wins against Jwaneng Galaxy in the CAF Confederations Cup. A 1-1 draw on their travels at SuperSport United followed.

In their last match, Pirates beat Maritzburg United 3-1 away after second half goals from Kabelo Dlamini, Deon Hotto and Vincent Pule.

Pirates continue to have numerous injuries in attacking areas as Tshegofatso Mabasa, Thembinkosi Lorch, Gabadinho Mhango and Zakhele Lepasa are all expected to miss out.

Kabelo Dlamini could start as the number ten having scored off the bench in the last match.

Bloemfontein Celtic have had a mixed season but seven points from their last five league matches has seen the side move to 11th in the Premier Soccer League table.

A 1-0 home win against TTM was followed by losing 4-3 away to AmaZulu and 4-0 away to Cape Town City. They then beat SuperSport United 2-1 at home and draw 1-1 with Chippa United on their own turf.

In their last match, Celtic lost 1-0 away to TS Galaxy.

Celtic have been struggling with injuries to key players this season but they had first choice goalkeeper Jackson Mabokgwane and midfielder Lantshene Phalane back on the bench for last match.

Tshepo Rikhotso will still be absent in defence due to suspension.