Orlando Pirates news: FIVE major injury concerns!

Orlando Pirates begin their MTN8 title defence this evening when they host Sekhukhune United at the Orlando Stadium.

The Buccaneers will undoubtedly be looking to make it two MTN8 titles in as many years, and it all begins tonight for them!

Last season, Jose Riveiro’s side overcame Royal AM, Mamelodi Sundowns and AmaZulu before lifting the title!

ALSO READ • Harry Kane completes move to Bayern Munich – OFFICIAL

ALSO READ • Pitso Mosimane suffers heartbreak in mega-money Arab cup

Sekhukhune United on the other hand are making history of their own when they face Orlando Pirates this evening.

Brandon Truter’s side are making their debut in the top eight competition!

Take a look at how both sides have opted to lineup for tonight’s blockbuster match below.

ALSO READ • Chiefs confirm passing on of star winger’s mother

Orlando Pirates squad and injury updates

Jose Riveiro looks set to be without both Miguel Timm and Thembinkosi Lorch. The star duo are yet to feature this season due to injury.

Despite his errors against Royal AM, Sipho Chaine is expected to retain his starting berth for the the Buccaneers while Monnapule Saleng and Zakhele Lepasa will again be key for Riveiro.

It remains to be seen whether Kermit Erasmus, Vincent Pule and Kabelo Dlamini are fit enough to make today’s match day squad.

ALSO READ • Mamelodi Sundowns star seals R30 million move to MLS club!

We are the Champions – Jose

“Pressure, pressure, pressure… everywhere. No… Responsibility, opportunity and excitement, maybe those are the words to define our mindset now.” Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro told reporters.

“We are thinking about the responsibility and privilege to defend the title. I would really like to have this pressure and privilege that every time we start the tournament. We are the champions.”

ALSO READ • Mamelodi Sundowns wrap up the Netherlands camp with win!

Orlando Pirates are a dangerous team

“Irrespective of what happened in the first game, they showed what they can do against Royal AM at home. So it is a very dangerous and good team we are facing.” Brandon Truter said as quoted by SowetanLive.

“We are very flexible when it comes to challenges, we’ve analysed them and hopefully, we will get it right, but as good as they are they have conceded three goals in three games, so hopefully, it is something we can capitalise on.”

ALSO READ • Former Orlando Pirates star fires warning at Mamelodi Sundowns