Orlando Pirates Confirmed for Clash With La Liga Giants in R16 Million Tournament in America

• Orlando Pirates have announced their participation in an international tournament at the end of the season in the United States of America
• The Premier Soccer League giants would be facing other top clubs all across the world in the 48-team men’s competition in May 2026
• The Soweto giants would face one of the top sides in the Spanish La Liga in the competition, and it would be a few days before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Orlando Pirates would face one of the top sides in the Spanish La Liga giants in a seven-a-side tournament, which is set to take place in Cary, North Carolina, from May 27 to June 1, 2026.

The Premier Soccer League giants are already planning their pre-season tournament despite the forthcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is co-hosted by the United States of America, Canada and Mexico.

The Soweto giants travelled to Spain during their last pre-season tour. It was the destination for Abdeslam Ouaddou after he was named the Sea Robbers' new coach.

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Pirates announce participation in international tournament

Orlando Pirates will join an expanding list of international teams participating in the Soccer Tournament (TST), including Spanish La Liga giants Villarreal and Mexican powerhouse Club América, in the 48-team men’s competition.

The competition is known for gifting the winners all the prize money stated for the tournament. It is reported that the champions will earn a $1 million (R16.5 million) prize money.

Currently on top of the Betway Premiership table on goal difference, the Buccaneers will make history as the first club from Africa to compete in this global football event.

The competition will reportedly kick off with group-stage matches on May 27, followed by knockout rounds to determine the overall winner.

The Buccaneers released an official statement on their website to confirm their participation in the competition alongside other clubs from different parts of the world.

"Orlando Pirates Football Club is proud to confirm its participation in the upcoming The Soccer Tournament (TST) in the United States," the statement read. "This historic entry makes the Buccaneers the first African team to take part in this innovative 7-a-side international competition."

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The club also highlighted the event’s rapid rise and distinctive appeal, describing TST as “one of the most thrilling new additions to the global football calendar.”

Significance of the competition for Orlando Pirates

Orlando Pirates Marketing Manager Sindi Sibisi has stressed the broader significance of joining the tournament for the Soweto giants aside from the money set aside for the winners.

"For Orlando Pirates, competing in TST goes beyond football. It’s an opportunity to showcase the Buccaneers brand worldwide, reach new fans, and strengthen the club’s ambition of expanding its presence beyond Africa," she said.

Other confirmed teams in the men’s event include KRU FC, Kwik Goal FC, and Bumpy Pitch FC, among various American sides. Orlando Pirates will reveal their 16-man squad for the tournament at a later date.

Nigerian football legend calls out SA players

Briefly News earlier reported that a Nigerian football legend has criticised South African players for not taking up a new challenge by moving to Europe.

The Super Eagles legend acknowledged the Premier Soccer League for being one of the best leagues in Africa, but wants Bafana Bafana stars to leave their comfort zone.

Source: Briefly News