Orlando Pirates travel to Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium to face Chippa United in what promises to be an exciting DStv Premiership encounter on March 5, 2025. With both teams aiming for a strong finish in the league, this match carries significant weight in their respective campaigns. Pirates are still chasing the top spot, while Chippa United is determined to climb the table and secure a respectable finish.
Starting Lineup for Chippa United vs Orlando Pirates, Live Scores
Starting Lineup for Orlando Pirates and Tactical Setup
The Buccaneers have named a strong starting XI, blending experience with youthful energy. The return of key players has bolstered their squad as they prepare for a crucial encounter.
Starting XI for Orlando Pirates:
- Sipho Chaine (GK) – Commanding presence with sharp reflexes.
- Thabiso Monyane (RB) – Overlapping full-back providing width.
- Olisa Ndah (CB) – Physically dominant in aerial duels.
- Nkosinathi Sibisi (CB) – Leader organizing the backline.
- Paseka Mako (LB) – Defensively solid with overlapping runs.
- Miguel Timm (CDM) – Ball-winning midfielder disrupting play.
- Thabang Monare (CDM) – Dictates tempo with precise passing.
- Monnapule Saleng (RW) – Dribbling wizard and goal threat.
- Patrick Maswanganyi (CAM) – Creative maestro unlocking defenses.
- Deon Hotto (LW) – Tireless winger with crossing accuracy.
- Evidence Makgopa (ST) – Clinical finisher and hold-up specialist.
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Key Players to Watch for Orlando Pirates
- Monnapule Saleng – The explosive winger is expected to play a vital role in breaking down Chippa’s defense with his pace and dribbling skills.
- Goodman Mosele – A crucial figure in the midfield, tasked with controlling the tempo and breaking up opposition attacks.
- Tshegofatso Mabasa – A natural goal scorer, he will be Pirates’ main threat in front of goal.
Pirates are likely to adopt an attacking 4-3-3 formation, focusing on pressing high and using their wingers to exploit the wide areas. Their ability to control possession and create goal-scoring chances will be crucial in this encounter.
Strengths:
- Dynamic attack with pace and creativity.
- Midfield dominance through Miguel Timm and Thabang Monare.
- Strong home support at Orlando Stadium.
Weaknesses:
- Defensive lapses when transitioning from attack.
- Over-reliance on wingers for chance creation.
Chippa United’s Starting Lineup and Tactical Approach
Chippa United, known for their resilient defensive displays and counter-attacking football, have named a competitive squad to challenge Pirates.
Predicted Starting XI for Chippa United:
- Lloyd Kazapua (GK) – Experienced shot-stopper and vocal leader.
- Craig Martin (RWB) – Pacy wing-back supporting attacks.
- Justice Chabalala (CB) – Physical enforcer in central defense.
- Roscoe Pietersen (CB) – Composed ball-playing defender.
- Azola Matrose (CB) – Young talent with strong tackling.
- Siphosakhe Ntiya-Ntiya (LWB) – Defensive workhorse on the left.
- Siviwe Zweni (CM) – Energetic box-to-box midfielder.
- Andile Mbenyane (CM) – Anchors midfield with tactical discipline.
- Augustine Kwem (CM) – Creative link between defense and attack.
- Bienvenu Eva Nga (ST) – Target man with aerial prowess.
- Elmo Kambindu (ST) – Quick striker exploiting gaps.
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Key Players to Watch for Chippa United
- Stanley Nwabali – The shot-stopper has been in fine form and will need to be at his best to keep Pirates at bay.
- Bienvenu Eva Nga – A powerful forward who thrives in one-on-one situations and can be a game-changer for Chippa.
- Kamohelo Mokotjo – A highly experienced midfielder who will be responsible for dictating play and stopping Pirates’ attacks.
Chippa is expected to set up in a defensive 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on quick transitions and exploiting Pirates’ defensive weaknesses on the counter. Their ability to remain compact and disciplined at the back will be essential if they are to get a positive result.
Strengths:
- Disciplined defensive structure.
- Effective set-piece delivery and aerial threats.
- Rapid counterattacks using pacy wingers.
Weaknesses:
- Limited creativity in central midfield.
- Struggles to retain possession against high-pressing teams.
Recent Form and Head-to-Head Record
- Orlando Pirates: Coming into this match, Pirates have won four of their last five games, showing great attacking form. However, they have struggled defensively, conceding unnecessary goals.
- Chippa United: Chippa has been inconsistent, with a mix of wins and losses in recent weeks. They tend to perform better at home, making this a tricky fixture for Pirates.
In their last five meetings, Orlando Pirates have dominated, winning three matches, while Chippa United managed one victory, with one game ending in a draw. Pirates will look to extend their dominance, but Chippa has proven to be a tough opponent in past encounters.
Key Battles to Watch
- Saleng vs. Mkhize – Pirates’ star winger will be looking to get past Chippa’s fullback, making this a crucial battle on the flank.
- Mosele vs. Mokotjo – A midfield duel that could determine the flow of the game.
- Mabasa vs. Nwabali – Pirates’ striker will be looking to score, but Chippa’s goalkeeper is in top form.
