Orlando Pirates fixture list and coach's warning ahead of Betway Premiership

Orlando Pirates face a busy schedule after the FIFA break, with coach Abdeslam Ouaddou addressing discipline among young players ahead of the MTN8 final and league title race.

Orlando Pirates have confirmed their competition calendar for the period following the FIFA international break, facing a congested run of league, cup and continental fixtures. The Sea Robbers, who sit second in the Premier Soccer League with 19 points from seven games, resume their Betway Premiership title chase at home to TS Galaxy on 18 October.

This domestic return is just the start of a demanding period. The club will then contest the MTN8 final against rivals Mamelodi Sundowns and begin their CAF Champions League group stage campaign, alongside entering the Carling Knockout. Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has used the break to address internal matters, specifically the conduct of younger squad members.

Coach Ouaddou on youth conduct

Abdeslam Ouaddou has publicly criticised showboating by some of the team's younger players, calling for a more constructive approach. The Moroccan coach, whose side has relied on youthful talent due to senior player departures and injuries, stressed the need for focus on results. "There’s nothing impressive about showboating, especially when the team is in desperate need of results," Ouaddou said.

His tough stance has drawn criticism from some quarters who feel he is too harsh, but Ouaddou is expected to find a balance between allowing creative expression and demanding disciplined, effective football. The team's strong recent form, with four wins and a draw in their last five matches, provides a solid platform as they enter this critical phase.

Title race and rival context

Orlando Pirates trail leaders Mamelodi Sundowns by a single point but hold a game in hand, placing them firmly in the championship conversation. Their defensive record is the league's best, having conceded just once while scoring 16 goals. Sundowns, their upcoming MTN8 final opponents, have their own challenges with injuries to defenders Khuliso Mudau and Keanu Cupido.

Elsewhere, fourth-placed Kaizer Chiefs face uncertainty in goal after captain Brandon Petersen's errors and subsequent injury, potentially opening the door for newcomer Renaldo Leaner. Pirates' immediate focus, however, is on maintaining their momentum. Their last outing was a 2-0 win over Marumo Gallants, with goals from Kabelo Kgosietsile and Nkosinathi Sibisi.

The team returns to action against TS Galaxy, who are currently 12th in the standings. A full breakdown of the league table is available in our standings section. Orlando Pirates begin their post-break schedule at Orlando Stadium on 18 October.