The Orlando Pirates reserve team are keen to make a statement with a strong showing against SBV Vitesse this Tuesday when they kick off their Netherlands Tour.
Having earned this opportunity through their triumph in the DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) back in South Africa, the Buccaneers are set to engage in a series of friendly matches, beginning with their clash against Vitesse at the Papendal training complex, scheduled for 12:30pm.
Ahead of the match, Pirates’ coach, Roscoe Krieling, expressed optimism about the squad’s readiness for the new season.
“We’re using this match as a barometer to gauge our preparedness,” he said, a hint of conviction in his voice.
“The boys are looking sharp, and even though we’re just three weeks into pre-season, we’re up for the challenge. This will be our fourth match since returning, and I believe it will serve as a crucial test of where we are.”
Captain Viwe “Jali” Fetsha echoed his coach's sentiments, emphasising the importance of securing a positive result from the outset of their tour.
“This trip is about gaining experience, and we need to start on the right foot,” he noted. “Going home without a win is not on our agenda. We need to show that our success wasn’t just a stroke of luck.”
Fetsha, whose leadership has been critical to the team’s recent successes, reminded everyone of the stakes involved. “
We’ve won the league, and now it’s time to prove that we deserve to reclaim our title. We might not know much about Vitesse, but we’re not here to be easy prey. Our goal is clear, we’re going into this match to win.”
Looking ahead, Fetsha highlighted the broader objectives of the tour.
“Beyond just winning, we want to learn as much as we can from this experience. Our aim is to return home having gained valuable insights as we strive to become the first team to defend the DDC title.”
With their sights set on making an impression, Pirates are ready to take on this challenge, eager to show the world that their success in South Africa is just the beginning of a promising journey.
A series of friendly matches lined up for the DDC champs in the Netherlands, zizokhala 🔥
— Asidlali (@Asidlali) August 17, 2026
📆 August 18 vs SBV Vitesse Arnhem
📆 August 20 vs De Graafschap
📆 August 22 vs Sparta Rotterdam & Yamanashi Gakuin High School.#Asidlali#SivuthaManje#PiratesTour pic.twitter.com/Hct4W0W9B9