Three players Pirates must watch as they renew Jwaneng Galaxy rivarly

Orlando Pirates and Jwaneng Galaxy are set to renew their rivalry in the CAF Champions League on Saturday in the second preliminary round.

The first-leg match between Pirates and Jwaneng Galaxy is slated to be played at the National Stadium in Gaborone at 16h00 [CAT].

And after last term’s disappointment, this one is undoubtedly a must-win match for Pirates in their quest for progression at the continental level.

At this stage last time, Pirates were bundled out of the tournament by Morena Ramoreboli’s side. In the first leg played in Botswana, the Soweto giants lost 1-0 via a Daniel Msendami goal.

In the second-leg, Jose Riveiro’s men tried to claw back into contention, but their efforts yielded a 1-0 win at Orlando Stadium.

And the tie had to be separated via the lottery of penalties where Galaxy were perfect. They won 5-4.

This time around, the trailblazing Pirates are fired up to undo last time’s embarrassing exit from the tourney.

Simply put, a lot is expected to happen in this fixture as Galaxy also aim to keep up good strides in the African Safari.

Without dangerman Msendami, who is now a Marumo Gallants player, it would be interesting to see how Ramoreboli will line up his team. FARPost looks at three Galaxy players tipped to upset Pirates.

THABANG SESINYI

Sesinyi has been a key driving force at Jwaneng Galaxy in recent times. The speedy forward, who can play on both wings, has been in form since he arrived from the now-defunct SA side Platinum Stars in 2019. He can also play as a centre-forward.

Sesinyi has given defenders and goalkeepers a torrid time when in possession. Last season, he scored 16 goals in the Botswana Premier League. In the CAF Champions League, the 31-year-old scored twice.

FORMER BAROKA STRIKER ONKABETSE MAKGANTAI

In addition, 29-year-old striker Makgantai is another Jwaneng Galaxy centre-forward in line to lead Ramoreboli’s team in attack.

Makgantai has vast experience, having played for DR Congo giants AS Vita in 2016 and Baroka FC in 2018.

He has been one of the most impressive forwards in Botswana, with 27 national team caps and 10 goals for the Zebras.

Last season, Makgantai scored seven goals for Galaxy as they won the league and Orange FA Cup.

OMAATLA KEBATHO

Kebatho is one of the veteran players who are expected to lead in attack for Galaxy. Popularly known as Dunga, the 31-year-old returned from a long injury layoff in August.

He is considered among the players who have the ability to rise at critical moments in games.

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