Orlando Pirates return to league action this afternoon, eager to maintain their momentum following a crucial victory in their previous match while keeping their Betway Premiership ambitions alive.
Fresh off a hard-fought 1-0 win over MC Alger in the quarter-finals of the CAF Champions League on Tuesday, the Buccaneers now shift focus to domestic duties as they lock horns with Polokwane City at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium.
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With the league season entering its critical final stages, Pirates cannot afford any slip-ups as they continue their pursuit of table-toppers Mamelodi Sundowns.
Despite having four games in hand, the Buccaneers trail by 15 points – a gap that was trimmed thanks to their impressive 2-1 victory over Sundowns in their most recent top-of-the-table clash.
Rise and Shine, on the other hand, will be looking to capitalise on home advantage and disrupt Pirates' charge up the table.
The hosts have proven to be a stubborn outfit this season, particularly on their own turf, making this a challenging fixture for Jose Riveiro's men.
In terms of team news, Pirates have confirmed that they will be without key players Patrick Maswanganyi, who is recovering from a quad strain, and Olisa Ndah, sidelined with a stress fracture.
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Despite these absences, the Buccaneers will be relying on their depth and quality to secure all three points.
With both teams having plenty to play for, an intense battle is expected in Polokwane. Pirates will be determined to build on their recent success, while City will aim to derail the visitors' title ambitions.
How they will possibly line up:
Sipho Chaine, Deano van Rooyen, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Deon Hotto, Mohau Nkota, Makhehleni Makhaula, Thalente Mbatha, Kabelo Dlamini, Tshegofatso Mabasa, Relebohile Mofokeng.
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