Orlando Pirates vs La Cure Waves - CAF Champions League

The CAF Champions League returns to the home ground on September 12, 2026, where Orlando Pirates and La Cure Waves will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. The left-back was taken off in the final minutes against Everton with cramp, and was not risked for the Champions League clash vs Sabah on Thursday.

A glance at the CAF Champions League table tells the story: Orlando Pirates in 5th and La Cure Waves in 29th, with positions to defend and places to climb. The hosts will hope that the the home ground crowd can inspire a performance, whatever the numbers suggest. The visitors will back themselves to cause problems and will not make the trip expecting an easy afternoon. Their 3-0 win over Nice takes them up to second spot in the fledgling Ligue 1 table.

Tactically, the contest promises a fascinating contrast. Orlando Pirates will look to impose their style on home soil, while La Cure Waves are likely to have ideas of their own about how to gain the upper hand. In possession, Silva has the confidence to play forwards rather than simply recycling possession.

Neither side is short on individuals capable of tilting the balance, and the duel between the two squads' chief creators could prove particularly pivotal. How each side deals with the other's danger men — and who takes their chances when they come — will be central to the outcome. In his latest Sky Sports column, Paul Merson says he would be worried by Roberto De Zerbi's post-match comments criticising Spurs' forward players and medical staff.

The market has yet to form a strong view, and the contest looks genuinely difficult to call. Given the balance of the numbers, Orlando Pirates should have enough to edge it — a 2-1 victory looks the most likely outcome. More than just three points is on the line at the home ground — this is a fixture that could shape the narrative of both clubs' seasons. Premier League chief executive Richard Masters says a verdict on the alleged charges against Manchester City "has taken longer than expected".