Orlando Pirates face the daunting challenge of reeling in runaway leaders Stellenbosch. Is this starting XI a good option?
Predicted Pirates XI vs Sundowns
This XI would see Goodman Mosele come out of the side to accommodate the return of Patrick Maswanganyi. Kabelo Dlamini would operate in a slightly more withdrawn midfield role. Pirates and Sundowns clash at Orlando Stadium on Sunday 16 March at 15:30. The Buccaneers trail Sundowns by 18 points, although Jose Riveiro’s side have four games in hand.
Chaine; Van Rooyen, Sibisi, Mbokazi, Hotto; Makhaula, Dlamini; Nkota, Maswanganyi, Mofokeng; Mabasa.
Mbokazi is showing huge signs of promise
19-year-old central defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi has walked straight into the side and not looked out of place. The stylish left-footer has impressed Jose Riveiro and the technical team with his strong work ethic, cool, calm composure on the ball, and crisp distribution over short and long distances. Mbokazi made his debut for Pirates as they claimed a 1-0 win at Chippa on Wednesday. A clean sheet for the youngster was an ideal start and he followed that up with another start and the opening goal against SuperSport in the Nedbank Cup. He started again when Pirates claimed a 0-0 draw away to Stellenbosch. His emergence comes at an opportune time with Sesane out for the season with a serious injury.
Titus emerges as an interesting Saleng replacement
Stellenbosch’s 24-year-old winger could potentially be a like-for-like replacement for Saleng as he enjoys hugging the right touchline. He’s not an inverted winger like Saleng, but since right-footer Relebohile Mofokeng already dazzles down the left, this isn’t much of an issue. Titus has impressed this campaign for Stellies, bagging six goals and three assists in 20 league appearances. Those are seriously good numbers.
Can Orlando Pirates upset the odds and breathe new life into the title race?
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