Orlando Pirates vs Lioli FC: CAF Champions League Preliminary Round

MTN8 champions Orlando Pirates are set to begin their CAF Champions League campaign this Saturday in Bloemfontein, facing off against Lesotho champions Lioli FC in the preliminary round first leg. This match marks a significant moment for both teams as they aim to make their mark in one of Africa's most prestigious football tournaments.

Match Details

• Date: Saturday, September 20 at 3:00 PM CAT (1:00 PM GMT)
• Venue: Toyota Stadium (also known as Free State Stadium)
• How to Watch: The match is available on SuperSport.

Team News

Orlando Pirates are coming off a high after securing their fourth successive MTN8 triumph. However, they face some challenges with key players like Tapelo Xoki and Olisa Ndah sidelined due to injuries. On the brighter side, Thabiso Sesane has returned to training, and captain Nkosinathi Sibisi made a comeback in the MTN8 final.

Lioli FC, on the other hand, will rely heavily on their star midfielder Mokoteli Mohapi, who has been a pivotal figure for both his club and the Lesotho national team.

Expected Lineups

Orlando Pirates

• GK: Sipho Chaine
• Defenders: Thabiso Lebitso, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Thabiso Sesane, Bandile Shandu
• Midfielders: Thalente Mbatha, Sihle Nduli
• Forwards: Tshepang Moremi, Patrick 'Tito' Maswanganyi, Oswin Appollis
• ST: Tshegofatso Mabasa

Lioli FC

• GK: William Huni
• Defenders: Mpho Hlephole, Koetle Tšoanelo, Leluma Posholi, Mphale Mphalaole
• Midfielders: Mohapi Sechaba, Mokoteli Mohapi
• Forwards: Thabang Klaas, Litšepe Marabe, Halifele Mokoqola
• ST: Tholang Makuru

Key Stats

• Orlando Pirates have gone 373 minutes without conceding in all competitions since Mamelodi Sundowns' Iqraam Rayners scored against them on August 23.
• Orlando Pirates were the first South African team to win the CAF Champions League in 1995, and only Mamelodi Sundowns (2016) have done it since.

Coach's Insight

Pirates' head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou remains cautious despite their recent success. "It doesn't mean I am a better coach than two months ago, I think maybe I'm still a plumber or carpenter for many people," he said after the 3-0 final win over Stellenbosch. Ouaddou emphasized that while his tactics worked against Stellenbosch, it doesn't automatically make him a better coach.

Historical Context

Last season, José Riveiro led Pirates to their first CAF Champions League semi-final appearance since 2013, though they lost to eventual champions Pyramids FC. If Ouaddou can improve upon that, the Pirates fans are all but certain to be won over for the foreseeable future, and it all starts with Saturday's clash.

Conclusion

This match is more than just a game; it's a test of resilience, strategy, and the will to succeed. Both teams have their strengths and challenges, making this a must-watch encounter for football enthusiasts.