Orlando Pirates exiting the Carling Knockout Cup early could be a blessing in disguise.
Having claimed the MTN8 last month, the Buccaneers were hoping to secure the Carling KO this season. However, they were shocked by Magesi FC in the last 16 of the competition. The defeat means the Buccaneers have to play fewer matches this season, which will benefit them in the long run.
Orlando Pirates’ December schedule is packed, as they will compete in the Betway Premiership and the CAF Champions League group stages. In December alone, the Sea Robbers will play six matches which will test the team’s title credentials.
So far, Jose Riveiro‘s men have won all their seven league matches this season and currently top the Betway Premiership with 21 points. Their last game was a 1-0 win over Richards Bay on Tuesday ensuring that they head into the FIFA break with a three-point lead over rivals Mamelodi Sundowns.
Can Orlando Pirates maintain their form?
This weekend, the Buccaneers are not in action having already eliminated from the Carling KO. That gives Riveiro’s men an extra week to recuperate meaning those players who had niggles and injuries will have time to recover.
During the FIFA break, the coaching staff will have a lot of time with the players to plan for their last eight matches of the year. Luckily, Orlando Pirates have just six players in the national team with the majority of them not starters. The likes of Relebohile Mofokeng, Patrick Maswanganyi and Thalenthe Mbatha might start in one of the two Bafana Bafana matches but the risk of injuries to the players is very slim.
On 26th November, Orlando Pirates travel to Algeria to play CR Belouizdad in the CAF CL. Three days later, they play Stellenbosch in a league clash. A full and well-rested Bucs team should more than likely win those two matches. Given their three-week break, Riveiro’s side should take advantage of their good fortunes this season.
Can the Buccaneers win the league this season?
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