Eight Orlando Pirates players will join their national teams after Thursday's league game, with six called up by South Africa. The contingent highlights the club's strong start to the season, which sees them second in the Premier Soccer League with 16 points from six matches, just one point behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns. Their recent form has been formidable, with the team winning five of their last six matches across all competitions.

Newly-appointed Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane has selected six Buccaneers. Defender Lebone Seema and striker Yanela Mbuthuma are in line for their senior international debuts. Seema, last season's Premiership Defender of the Season, has been central to a defence that has kept eight clean sheets in ten games across all competitions. Mbuthuma's call-up follows a run of three goals and two assists in his last three appearances. His recent goal contributions have been key, with the striker averaging a goal or an assist every 72 minutes over the last month.

They are joined by more experienced internationals in captain Nkosinathi Sibisi, goalkeeper Sipho Chaine, Kamogelo Sebelebele and Oswin Appollis. South Africa host Guinea before travelling to face Eritrea in Group D of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

New signing Gamphani Lungu returns to the Zambia squad for the first time in over two years. The 27-year-old, who has 15 caps, will hope to add to his tally as Chipolopolo begin their qualifying campaign with a tough trip to Algeria before hosting Togo. Lungu has been a key creative force for Pirates since his arrival, providing three assists in his first five league appearances.

Veteran winger Deon Hotto is part of a provisional Namibia squad. The Brave Warriors face Congo-Brazzaville and Comoros in qualifiers before a friendly against Russia. Hotto continues to be a vital outlet on the flank, contributing with two goals and an assist in the league this season.

The players will depart after Pirates host Durban City at Orlando Amstel Arena on Thursday. The club's current standings position is built on a defence that has conceded just once in the league this season. This defensive solidity, combined with an attack finding its rhythm, has been the foundation for their push at the top of the table.

Further reading: Orlando Pirates FC | Official Website