Orlando Pirates Look to Bounce Back Against Baroka in Nedbank Cup Following Heavy Loss to Sundowns

After a tough defeat at the hands of Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates are gearing up for a fresh challenge this weekend.

The Pirates were humbled 4-1 by Sundowns in their recent Betway Premiership clash, a result that dampened their title hopes.

This Saturday, they will look to regain momentum as they face Baroka in the Nedbank Cup.

The Aftermath of the Sundowns Defeat

The 4-1 loss to Sundowns at Loftus Versfeld left Orlando Pirates with a tough pill to swallow.

With just six points separating them from the Brazilians before the game, they were hoping for a win to close the gap and put pressure on the league leaders.

However, Sundowns proved to be too much, and now with a nine-point deficit between them, the Pirates’ chances of catching Sundowns seem slim.

While their title charge in the league might be over for now, all is not lost for the Buccaneers.

They still have the CAF Champions League and the Nedbank Cup to compete for in the coming months.

Orlando Pirates Take On Baroka in the Nedbank Cup

Looking ahead, Orlando Pirates will be hosting Baroka in the Nedbank Cup round of 16 this Saturday at Orlando Stadium. The match is set to kick off at 15:00.

Even though Baroka currently play in the Motsepe Foundation Championship, the Pirates are familiar with the Limpopo-based side.

In fact, Baroka has history with the Buccaneers, having denied them the Telkom Knockout Cup in 2018, clinching the title on penalties.

Pirates Ready to Make a Statement

This time, however, Orlando Pirates are more determined than ever.

With five trophies in the last three seasons, they are aiming to add to their collection.

They haven’t lost a domestic final since their 2018 defeat to Baroka, and with the defending champions playing at home, they are heavily favored to advance.