Orlando Pirates out to end away losing streak against Marumo Gallants

The Buccaneers head into the clash on the back of an impressive 2-0 win over Durban City on Thursday evening as they play catch up on the league table following their CAF Champions League victory over La Cure Waves.

Meanwhile, Babina Noko find themselves struggling and winless at the bottom of the log after last week's 1-0 loss against AmaZulu in Durban.

However, Gallants have won their last two matches at home against the Buccaneers, scoring twice on both occassions despite using different venues to host the fixture [Peter Mokaba Stadium and Dr Molemela Stadium].

The two sides have met on eight previous occasions in total in the league, with Bucs winning five times, losing twice and drawing the first clash between them.

Gallants will be playing their first match since the dismissal of Phuti Mohafe as head coach, with Namibian Ronnie Kananelo taking over at the helm after parting ways with Pirates next CAF opponents African Stars.

"There is an energy and spirit that I am taking into this game, said former Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper Kananelo.

"Out of the many games that I have played against Pirates in my playing days, I've never lost against Pirates and that's what I am bringing to this game."

The home side will also be without captain Edgar Manaka following the midfielders sending off against Usuthu, while Pirates are expecting Gamphani Lungu and Andre de Jong back pending fitness tests.

Bafana Bafana midfielder Thalente Mbatha, Evidence Makgopa, Sihle Nduli and Mohau Nkota all miss out through injury.

Moroccan coach Abdeslam Ouaddou recently responded to suggestions that he is signing a lot of players from former club Gallants following the latest switch of Bheki Mabuza.

"People must understand that this big club has a scouting department that is responsible for bringing people in based on their identity and how we want to play the game," clarified Ouaddou.

"People must stop thinking that coach is bringing all of Marumo this side."

Kick-off is at 15h00.