Stellenbosch vs Orlando Pirates Prediction: The Buccaneers are the favourite to secure the maximum points

On Saturday, the Buccaneers will kick off their league campaign against Stellenbosch at the Danie Craven stadium. Orlando Pirates will challenge Mamelodi Sundowns for the title this season, and it all begins with them showing character here.

Even though they had a poor start last season, Stellenbosch managed to finish in sixth spot. They had a happy ending after accumulating most of the points in the second half of the season. They had a total of forty points from a possible ninety, scoring thirty-nine and conceding thirty-eight times.

Stellenbosch sold one of their best players last season, Junior Mendieta, who now plays for Mamelodi Sundowns but have managed to replace him with Genino Palace from Maritzburg United. Stellenbosch will hope to pick up from where they stopped last season; however, a stern test awaits them against one of the best attacking sides tomorrow.

The Buccaneers finished strong last season, despite not starting the league well. They picked up fifty-four points from a possible ninety and will compete in the CAF Champions League this season. One thing they have done well this season is to retain their star players.

Orlando Pirates' influential midfielder, Monnapule Saleng, who had the best goals/assists last season, will be desperate for the golden boot after falling short by a goal last season.

The Buccaneers are tipped to challenge Mamelodi Sundowns for the title this season, and a win here will be significant for their progress in the league.

Over their previous eleven meetings, Orlando Pirates have been the better side with six wins and three draws, while Stellenbosch have managed just one win. Orlando Pirates head here without losing any of their seven preseason games and are geared up to win more titles this season. They added some top prospects to their squad and refused to strengthen their arch-rival with their star players. On the other hand, Stellenbosch showed some glimpses of a potential top-four side towards the end of the season. It’s too early to decide how these teams will play, but we expect Orlando Pirates to be stronger; bet on an away win or draw and over 1.5 goals for 2.01.

We expect both sides to get a goal apiece for 1.99.

This encounter always produces goals, with over 2.5 goals scored in three of their last four meetings; bet on over 2.5 goals for 2.35.

Good luck!