Orlando Pirates to face European champions! – Confirmed

Orlando Pirates to face European champions! – Confirmed

Orlando Pirates will face the 2022/23 UEFA Europa Champions, Sevilla in a friendly match as they prepare for the new season.

Orlando Pirates will take on Sevilla in a pre-season friendly. Interestingly, Sevilla are former European Champions having won the 2022/23 UEFA Europa League.

In fact, this is one of the biggest sides to take on an SA club since Mamelodi Sundowns took on Barcelona at the FNB Stadium. This, despite having their worst season in recent memory, the Spanish outfit will provide a stern test to Jose Riveiro and the Bucs. Sevilla finished 16th in La Liga last season but they are usually in the top half of the table.

PIRATES TO TAKE ON FORMER EUROPA CHAMPIONS

Pirates will face Sevilla on Wednesday, 15 July 2024.

“During this time, there will be three friendlies. First up is the South African side Orlando Pirates, who will visit the Jesús Navas Stadium for a behind-closed-doors fixture on Wednesday 15 July,” the club confirmed on their official website.

Therefore, this is a huge opportunity for the Bucs. Not only will they get the chance to travel to Europe but they will also get to test themselves against a top quality side. Additionally, the players will get exposure to a European audience. This, could open doors for players that impress during this match.

Furthermore, the side will gain priceless experience. Last season they toured Europe and they returned to SA to win two trophies – the MTN8 and Nedbank Cup. Now, fans will be hoping they can elevate from this. Unfortunately, for these six Pirates players linked with likely exits, this tour could became their farewell tour.

BUCS TO BRAVE AFRICA NEXT SEASON

Essentially, Pirates return to the CAF Champions League next season. Furthermore, they want to compete with Mamelodi Sundowns in the PSL. Ultinately, somebody has to end their dominance – or at the very least – compete with them.

Moreover, the Brazilians have now won seven consecutive DStv Premiership titles. Furthermore, most of these were landslide victorians as Sundowns seemingly only had records to compete with. We don’t want the PSL to become the farmers league. So, Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs need to step up and compete.