Orlando Pirates supporters can follow their team’s CAF Champions League campaign live on television. The SABC has confirmed that SABC 2 will broadcast the Buccaneers’ second preliminary round first-leg encounter.
The match against Namibian champions African Stars will take place at Botswana National Stadium in Gaborone. Kick-off is scheduled for 15:00.
The fixture offers Pirates another opportunity to pursue continental glory after their previous campaign ended in disappointment.
Why African Stars Will Host Orlando Pirates in Botswana
African Stars secured their place in the second preliminary round after overcoming AS Mangasport. However, the Namibian champions cannot host the match at home because their country lacks a stadium meeting CAF requirements.
Consequently, they will welcome the South African giants in Botswana. The encounter presents a significant challenge for both teams as they seek to advance in Africa’s premier club competition.
Pirates will enter the contest looking to establish an advantage before the return leg. Meanwhile, African Stars will aim to capitalise on their opportunity against one of South Africa’s biggest clubs.
Pirates Regain Momentum After MTN8 Final Defeat
Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou’s team suffered disappointment against Mamelodi Sundowns in last weekend’s MTN8 final. Nevertheless, the Buccaneers quickly recovered with a convincing 3-0 victory over TS Galaxy in the Betway Premiership.
However, Pirates could face a selection concern involving Oswin Appollis. The 24-year-old midfielder, who won the Midfielder of the Season award, suffered an injury during the midweek encounter.
Appollis was stretchered off, leaving his availability uncertain ahead of the African Stars clash. Ouaddou could consider Ghampani Lungu or Kabelo Kgositsile as potential replacements on the left wing.
Pirates have a proud history in this competition. In 1995, they became the first South African club to win the CAF Champions League, then called the African Cup of Champions Clubs.
The Buccaneers defeated ASEC Mimosas 1-0 in Abidjan after drawing 2-2 in Johannesburg. They remained South Africa’s only champions until Mamelodi Sundowns lifted the trophy in 2016.
Pirates reached the semi-finals in 2024/25 but exited the following season against FC Saint-Éloi Lupopo. After a 3-3 aggregate draw, Lupopo won 5-4 on penalties following contrasting 3-0 victories in the two legs.
The post Orlando Pirates vs African Stars: SABC Confirms Live Broadcast appeared first on iHarare News.
