Orlando Pirates vs Marumo Gallants – As the festive season approaches, all eyes will be on Orlando Stadium on 24 December 2024, when Orlando Pirates face Marumo Gallants in a crucial Betway Premiership fixture. This match offers an exciting opportunity for the Buccaneers to keep pace with Mamelodi Sundowns at the top of the table, while the visitors aim to climb away from the relegation zone. Here’s everything you need to know about this intriguing clash.
Orlando Pirates vs Marumo Gallants Kick-Off Time
- Date: 24 December 2024
- Kick-off Time: 15:00 SAST
- Venue: Orlando Stadium, Soweto
- Broadcast: SuperSport PSL, DStv Now
Previous Head-to-Head Orlando Pirates have dominated their recent meetings with Marumo Gallants, winning their last two matches at Orlando Stadium. Their most recent encounter ended in a 2-0 victory for the Buccaneers on 28 January 2023, showcasing their dominance on home soil.
Recent Form
- Orlando Pirates: Currently second in the league with 21 points from eight matches, Pirates are struggling for form with no wins in their last three matches. Their most recent outing was a 1-0 home defeat to Stellenbosch FC.
- Marumo Gallants: Sitting 12th on the table with 10 points from nine matches, Gallants have been inconsistent, alternating between wins and losses. They were narrowly beaten 1-0 by Polokwane City in their last outing.
Players to Lookout For
- Orlando Pirates: Mohau Nkota has been a standout performer, creating chances and scoring crucial goals.
- Marumo Gallants: Lesiba Nku remains a vital attacking option for Gallants, capable of unlocking defences with his creativity.
Current Injuries
- Orlando Pirates: Pirates will be without suspended star Patrick Maswanganyi, as well as injured players Bandile Shandu, Thabiso Lebitso, and Goodman Mosele. However, coach Jose Riveiro still has a strong squad ready to deliver.
- Marumo Gallants: Gallants will have to do without one of their key players, Monde Mphambaniso.
Betting Odds and Tips
| Bet Type | Prediction | Odds |
|---|---|---|
| Full-Time Result | Orlando Pirates Win | 1.50 |
| Over/Under Goals | Under 2.5 Goals | 1.75 |
| Both Teams to Score | No | 1.60 |
| Correct Score | 1-0 to Orlando Pirates | 6.00 |
Betting Tips: The low-scoring trend and defensive strength of Orlando Pirates suggest a narrow victory for the hosts. A 1-0 scoreline is a likely outcome, and punters may also explore the under 2.5 goals market.
Orlando Pirates vs Marumo Gallants Prediction Breakdown
With Orlando Pirates boasting a solid defence and Marumo Gallants struggling offensively, a tightly contested match is expected. The Buccaneers are likely to edge out the visitors, with a single goal separating the sides.
Predicted Line-ups
- Orlando Pirates:
- Goalkeeper: Sipho Chaine
- Defenders: Deano Van Rooyen, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Thabiso Sesane, Paseka Mako
- Midfielders: Makhehlene Makhaula, Thalente Mbatha, Relebohile Mofokeng
- Forwards: Monnapule Saleng, Evidence Makgopa, Mohau Nkota
- Marumo Gallants:
- Goalkeeper: Washington Arubi
- Defenders: Mabotja, Nthatheni, Mathiane, Nhlapo
- Midfielders: Nange, Msendami, Mlambo, Sithole
- Forwards: Dhludhlu, Mhango
Orlando Pirates have the chance to reignite their title challenge with a much-needed victory at home. Marumo Gallants will look to frustrate their opponents and capitalise on any mistakes. Fans can expect a closely fought encounter with limited goal-scoring opportunities as both sides aim for crucial points.
Related article: How Orlando Pirates Failed To Maintain its Winning Momentum
