Orlando Pirates will resume their MTN8 title defence as they travel to DHL Stadium for the opening leg of their semifinal tie against Cape Town City on Wednesday.
Four days after advancing in the CAF Champions League, the Soweto Giants turn their focus to domestic cup action as they look to draw first blood in the first fixture in their two-legged match-up against the men from the Mother City.
The fixture comes after a tricky outing for Pirates, who were able to see off Malagasy champions Disciples FC in the deciding leg of the first Preliminary Round clash at Orlando Stadium on Friday.
They won 4-0 after a goalless draw on the away leg played in Mauritius five days prior, ensuring progress into the play-off round of the Champions League.
It was yet another successful cup tie for the Buccaneers, who had disposed of SuperSport United in their MTN8 quarter-final on home soil. With seven goals scored in their first three games of the season, Pirates will look to find the net a few more times in what could be a testing assignment on the road against a well-rested City outfit.
The home side have been able to channel all their focus towards the upcoming clash against the Buccaneers since booking their spot in the semis. They did so by beating Sekhukhune United 1-0 courtesy of a late penalty converted by Darwin Gonzales.
Now taking to the field once more after two weeks of no competitive action, Eric Tinkler’s men will look to use the lengthy rest to their advantage against a battle-tested Bucs outfit.
Pirates have had a few boosts heading into the clash with Thabiso Monyane and Miguel Timm both returning to action on Friday after short injury layoffs, while new signing Gilberto has since become available for selection.
For City, Angolan midfielder Carlinhos is sidelined after picking up a knee injury in the lead-up to the clash against the Buccaneers.
The Citizens have, however, further bolstered their squad, with former French youth international Amadou Soukona and ex-Moroka Swallows defender Ntsikelelo Ngqonga among the latest talents roped in during the ongoing transfer window.