Orlando Pirates confirmed pre-season tour to Spain, set to take place from 8 to 20 July 2025. The Buccaneers will face four European clubs in preparation for the 2025/26 campaign, marking their third consecutive pre-season in the Spanish city of Marbella.
The first friendly will be against English League One side Bolton Wanderers on 11 July at the Marbella Football Centre, with kick-off scheduled for 11:00 local time. On 13 July, Pirates will face Pafos FC, the reigning champions of the Cypriot First Division.
The tour continues on 17 July with a clash against UD Las Palmas, a newly promoted Spanish La Liga club. The final match will be played on 19 July against Granada CF, who currently compete in the Spanish Segunda División.
Preparing for a New Chapter
These fixtures offer Orlando Pirates a strong mix of opposition styles and competition levels, ideal for testing the squad’s readiness ahead of the new season. With new head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou recently appointed, the matches in Spain will be his first opportunity to work with the squad in a competitive setting and begin shaping his tactical approach.
Looking Ahead
Orlando Pirates will resume training in Johannesburg on 27 June before jetting off to Spain on 8 July. The tour will play a crucial role in conditioning the team and fine-tuning strategies before the Betway Premiership and CAF Champions League campaigns begin.
