Orlando Pirates Kaizer Chiefs

Tshegofatso Mabasa of Orlando Pirates during the DStv Premiership 2021/22 match between Orlando Pirates and Royal AM on the 28 October 2021 at Orlando Stadium, Soweto Pic Sydney Mahlangu/BackpagePix

Orlando Pirates starting XI prediction: DStv Premiership vs TS Galaxy

Here we try to predict the Orlando Pirates starting XI for their DStv Premiership clash with TS Galaxy at the Orlando Stadium.

Orlando Pirates Kaizer Chiefs

Tshegofatso Mabasa of Orlando Pirates during the DStv Premiership 2021/22 match between Orlando Pirates and Royal AM on the 28 October 2021 at Orlando Stadium, Soweto Pic Sydney Mahlangu/BackpagePix

After successive draws Orlando Pirates will be desperate to return to winning ways when they host TS Galaxy on Saturday afternoon.

Here we try to predict the Orlando Pirates starting XI for their DStv Premiership clash with TS Galaxy at the Orlando Stadium.

Orlando Pirates starting XI prediction

There is no reason for Orlando Pirates to replace Siyabonga Mpontshane in goal, nor is there a suitable replacement waiting in the wings, meaning he simply must start.

He was liable for the goal conceded by Orlando Pirates in their 1-1 draw last time out against Amazulu, however, Paseka Mako has done well enough over the season to retain his place at left-back.

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At right-back though we expect to see Bandile Shandu return as the team has faltered in his absence although you’d be hard-pressed to directly link their performances to his absence.

The central defensive pairing of Olisah Ndah and Ntsikelelo Nyauza have done well in the absence of Happy Jele and Thulani Hlatshwayo.

Orlando Pirates
Happy Jele and Thulani Hlatshwayo have been big losses for Pirates, however, Olisa Ndah has stepped up. Photo: Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix

In central midfield meanwhile, Fortune Makaringe and Ben Motshwari should continue their newfound allegiance. The pairing hasn’t produced yet, however, they have great potential.

Collins Makgaka bagged an assist in midweek and therefore should act as the link between the midfield and the strike force.

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Deon Hotto should start on the left side of the attack having looked the sharpest of the attackers in the draw with Usuthu.

Orlando Pirates
Deon Hotto of Orlando Pirates celebrates a goal with teammates. Photo: Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix

Thembinkosi Lorch was underwhelming last time out, however, needs time to settle back in after a long injury lay off.

It is likely that Tshegofatso Mabasa could return to lead the line though after Kwame Peprah again fired blanks last time out.

Orlando Pirates starting XI (Predicted)

Siyabonga Mpontshane. Paseka Mako. Olisah Ndah. Ntsikelelo Nyauza. Bandile Shandu. Fortune Makaringe. Ben Motshwari. Collins Makgaka. Deon Hotto, Thembinkosi Lorch. Tshegofatso Mabasa.

Confirmed XI

Orlando Pirates XI: Mpontshane, Nyauza, Ndah, Shandu, Mako, Monare, Makaringe, Makgaka, Hotto, Dzvukamanja, Peprah.

Subs: Sandilands, Mabaso, Makhubela, Maela, Sam, Mabasa, Mhango, Motshwari, Lorch.

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