Nedbank Cup: Predicting Orlando Pirates' starting XI to face AmaZulu FC

The agile shot-stopper is set to continue in goal for the Buccaneers as the club's first-choice keeper Richard Ofori is still out due to a long-term injury. 

The Maritzburg United academy product cemented his place in the team's starting line-up with some solid performances towards the end of last year.

The experienced defender started for Bucs in their last game which was a win over AmaZulu FC in a PSL match on December 23 and he is likely to keep his place in the team.

The Nigeria international is expected to start for the Buccaneers after representing his country at the 2021 Afcon finals in Cameroon having impressed while playing for Bucs this term. 

The Pirates captain produced two good displays for Warriors as they clinched the DStv Compact Cup last month and he will now be looking to lead Bucs to a win over Usuthu. 

The box-to-box midfielder will be up against AmaZulu captain Makhehlene Makhaula in the battle between two Randfontein-born midfield maestros.

The promising player's return from injury helped improve Bucs' midfield towards the end of last year having provided an assist for Bucs' second goal against AmaZulu. 

The Swallows FC academy product changed the complexion of the game after coming on as a substitute against Usuthu and he could be rewarded with a starting berth.

The former Lamontville Golden Arrows winger was a constant threat to the KwaZulu-Natal giants' defence and he provided an assist for Pirates' first goal.

With Thembinkosi Lorch an injury doubt, Makhubela is likely to start in the right side of Bucs' attack as they look to start the new year with a win.

The Ghana under-23 international scored twice against AmaZulu to inspire Bucs to a 2-1 win and he will be keen to replicate the same form this weekend.