Orlando Pirates Handed Difficult CAF Champions League Draw

NEWS HUB CREATOR • 2h ago

Orlando Pirates have discovered their opponents and fixtures for the CAF Champions League group stage following the draw in Cairo, with the Soweto giants facing a challenging battle to secure a place in the knockout rounds.

The Buccaneers have been drawn in Group C alongside Cameroonian side Colombe Sportive, Moroccan club RS Berkane and Tanzanian outfit Simba SC. With teams from different footballing backgrounds competing in the group, Abdeslam Ouaddou’s men will need to maintain consistency and collect valuable points to progress to the next round.

Pirates will begin their group-stage campaign with an away fixture against Simba SC. The opening encounter will provide an early test for the Buccaneers, who will be eager to make a positive start and build momentum for the matches ahead.

Their second match will see them return home to face RS Berkane at the Orlando Amstel Arena. Playing in front of their home supporters could give Pirates an advantage, although the Moroccan side is expected to provide a difficult challenge.

The Buccaneers will then face Colombe Sportive twice in succession. They are scheduled to travel to Cameroon for the third matchday before welcoming the same opponents to South Africa for their fourth fixture.

Pirates will meet Simba SC again on matchday five in what could prove to be a crucial encounter in determining the final group standings. Their group-stage campaign will conclude with a difficult away trip to Morocco, where they will face RS Berkane.

The opening round of group-stage matches is scheduled for November 27–29, while the final round will take place from January 22–24, 2027. Pirates will need to remain focused throughout the campaign, as every point could prove decisive in the race for qualification.

Meanwhile, reports have emerged concerning an alleged inquiry into last season’s DStv Premiership encounter between Orlando Pirates and Orbit College FC. According to the reports, PSL president Irvin Khoza halted the proposed investigation after reportedly concluding that the rumours surrounding the match were unfounded.

It was alleged that some league officials wanted the fixture reviewed over suspicions that money might have changed hands between the two clubs. However, no proven wrongdoing has been established, and neither club has been found guilty of any misconduct in connection with the allegations.

With the CAF Champions League group stage approaching, Pirates will be focused on preparing for their continental assignments while continuing to compete in domestic football. Balancing both competitions will be important if the Buccaneers hope to enjoy a successful season.

Their opening match against Simba SC could provide an early indication of their readiness for the challenge. A positive result away from home would put them in a strong position as they prepare for subsequent fixtures.

However, the trip to Morocco for their final group-stage match could become particularly significant if qualification remains undecided. With four teams competing for a place in the knockout rounds, Orlando Pirates will have little room for costly mistakes as they pursue their continental ambitions.