Orlando Pirates confirm pre-season schedule

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Orlando Pirates have confirmed their pre-season schedule, which will be taking place in Spain.

The Buccaneers will return to Europe, where they will participate in three fixtures in Spain.

Pirates are set to face English Championship side Plymouth Argyle on July 12 before facing off against La Liga outfit Sevilla on July 15.

The Soweto giants will end their pre-season tour of Europe when they take on Qatar Stars League outfit Al Sadd SC on July 19.

Orlando Pirates have since released the following statement, which reads:

Orlando Pirates Football Club is pleased to announce the club’s Preseason schedule for 2024. The Mighty Buccaneers will be returning to Europe for a three-match tour in Spain.

Jose Riveiro’s men will begin their preseason campaign against English Championship side Plymouth Argyle on July 12, before heading to Seville on July 15 to take on La Liga outfit Sevilla.

Then to round up the tour, the back-to-back MTN8 and Nedbank Cup champs will lock horns with Qatar Stars League outfit Al Sadd SC on July 19.

Plymouth Argyle

Nicknamed The Pilgrims, Plymouth Argyle Football Club compete in the English Championship and despite a disappointing 2023/24 season, the club has already signalled their intent to change their fortunes in the new season with the appointment of Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney as the new Manager.

Speaking on his appointment last month, Rooney said: “This is an opportunity to be part of an exciting project. I look forward to helping to build a squad of players to play expansive football – and to entertain the Green Army.

“I have experienced first-hand how talented the existing group of players is here – and also the incredible atmosphere at Home Park. The club is on an exciting long-term journey, with a progressive plan in place. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of it. I can’t wait for the Championship season to start in August.”

Sevilla FC

Sevilla FC need no introduction. The club is considered one of the most successful teams in the UEFA Cup/Europa League with seven titles to their name, most recently in 2023.

The La Liga giants are currently managed by Quique Sanchez Flores. He was appointed on December 18, 2023.

Al Sadd SC

Al Sadd SC are regarded as the best team in Qatar and are the only Qatari team to have won the AFC Champions League in Asia. Al Sadd SC are a powerhouse in Qatari football, with a winning tradition, passionate fan base, and talented players that make them a force to be reckoned with on the field. Notable players to have don the jersey include Xavi and Andrew Ayew. Of the current crop, Al Sadd SC are led by Akram Afif, who scored 26 goals (including 11 assists) in 22 matches.

Photo by Orlando Pirates website