Eric Tinkler’s Sekhukhune out to exploit Orlando Pirates’ post-CAF fatigue

Orlando Pirates host Sekhukhune United on Wednesday night at Orlando Stadium at 7.30 pm, looking to shake off their CAF Champions League disappointment and keep their league title hopes alive.

The Buccaneers, currently second on the Betway Premiership table, return to domestic action just five days after their semi-final exit at the hands of Pyramids FC. 

While the loss in Cairo was a blow to their continental ambitions, the focus now shifts to closing the gap on leaders Mamelodi Sundowns and securing a strong league finish. With 46 points from 20 games, Pirates trail Sundowns by nine points but have two games in hand. 

A win over Sekhukhune would restore belief ahead of Saturday’s crucial Soweto derby against Kaizer Chiefs—an encounter that could further define their season. However, standing in their way is a determined Sekhukhune side led by former Pirates coach Eric Tinkler. 

Babina Noko are third on the log with 41 points and are enjoying one of their best seasons in top-flight football. 

A victory in Orlando would not see them leapfrog Pirates into second but would draw them to within two points and strengthen their push for continental qualification.

Pirates come into the fixture in solid league form, having won three of their last five matches, including a win away at Polokwane City. At home, they’ve been particularly strong — winning seven, drawing three and losing just once this season. 

Defensively, they’ve conceded only 14 goals in 23 games, a record they’ll hope to maintain under pressure.

Still, with the high-stakes derby double-header looming — first in the league on Saturday at FNB Stadium, followed by the Nedbank Cup final at Moses Mabhida — Pirates could be tempted to rotate the squad, testing their depth in a vital week. Sekhukhune are unbeaten in their last three games and are coming off a 1-1 draw against TS Galaxy. 

Tinkler’s charges have scored 34 goals this season, showing attacking promise, but their defence remains a concern with 28 goals conceded.

In terms of individual form, Pirates will be counting on young winger Mohau Nkota, who found the net in the CAF semi-final and could bring that momentum into the league. 

For Sekhukhune, Chibuike Ohizu remains a threat in front of goal, having scored in their last outing. The midfield battle will also be crucial, with Makhehleni Makhaula and Thalente Mbatha expected to set the tone for Pirates in the engine room. 

Tinkler’s men will likely rely on Sphesihle Mkhize control and composure to neutralise Pirates’ possession game while Sipho Mbule adds the necessary guile and creativity. 

With both sides chasing CAF qualification and Pirates juggling multiple priorities, Wednesday night’s clash promises intensity, tactical battles and high stakes. 

All eyes will be on Orlando Stadium as the league season nears its climax.