Pirates and Stellies Set to Battle for First League Win

Orlando Pirates and Stellenbosch FC will battle at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg, Gauteng, on Wednesday, 20 August, with both looking to bag their first win of the season after faltering starts to the 2025/26 Betway Premiership campaign.

Pirates, currently 14th on the Premier Soccer League (PSL) table, have lost their two initial league fixtures but gained encouragement with a late 1-1 draw against champions Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8.

Kamogelo Sebelebele’s debut goal lifted some pressure off new coach Abdeslam Ouaddou’s shoulders, who admitted: “Unfortunately, we were not efficient, and again, we had the misfortune to concede the goal at a set piece… [but the team]showed great character and great personality, and I was happy about the second half.”

Stellenbosch, just a point ahead in 13th, head into the tie buoyed by a 2-0 MTN8 semi-final win over Sekhukhune United,

However, the Garden Route side’s growing injuries threaten to disrupt momentum. Striker Ashley Cupido limped off at the weekend, while influential midfielder Sanele Barns faces a late fitness test after complaining of recent hamstring tightness. Coach Steve Barker explained it was “precaution more than anything else” to rest him.

Past results show that the odds favour Stellies, who are unbeaten in their last four PSL meetings with Pirates. With both clubs juggling cup success and domestic struggles, their upcoming contest could prove a turning point in their seasons.

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