Orlando Pirates could collect up to R3m in gate revenue on Saturday when they open their Betway Premiership title defence against Milford FC at a potentially packed Orlando Amstel Arena.
The club has confirmed that tickets for the season opener are priced at R100 each, with demand expected to be high as supporters return for Abdeslam Ouaddou’s second campaign in charge.
Orlando Amstel Arena, which holds 37,139 spectators, hosted several sell-out matches last season and another capacity crowd is anticipated for the first fixture of the 2026/27 campaign.
Club officials estimate that between 25,000 and 30,000 tickets will be sold, excluding complimentary tickets allocated to sponsors, VIP guests and other stakeholders. A sale of 25,000 tickets would generate R2.5m, while 30,000 tickets sold would push gate takings to R3m.
Champions set for big-stage return
Excitement around the start of the new season has been fuelled not only by the chance to see the reigning Betway Premiership champions in action, but also by the prospect of watching Orlando Pirates’ nine new signings in a competitive match for the first time.
The Buccaneers are coming off a dominant 2025/26 campaign in which they completed a domestic treble, lifting the Betway Premiership, MTN8 and Carling Knockout trophies.
Their league form was particularly impressive. Pirates finished the Betway Premiership season with a 21-6-3 record, collecting 69 points and setting a new club benchmark of 21 victories in a single premiership campaign.
In cup competition, they continued to rewrite history. The MTN8 title, secured in September 2025, marked their fourth consecutive triumph in the tournament – a feat no club had previously achieved.
Record-breaking attack and rock-solid defence
Last season also delivered landmark statistics for the Soweto side, who reached new heights both in attack and defence.
Orlando Pirates broke their long-standing club scoring record by netting 62 goals across 36 matches in all competitions. That return, averaging 1.7 goals per game, underlined their most clinical attacking display in decades.
At the other end, they were just as formidable. The team boasted the most disciplined defence in South African football, conceding only 11 goals in 30 league fixtures.
Goalkeeper Sipho Chaine played a central role in that resilience, finishing the campaign with 16 clean sheets as the Buccaneers built their title charge on a foundation of defensive consistency.
Support base underlines club stature
With another large crowd expected on Saturday, Orlando Pirates are poised once again to demonstrate the size and loyalty of their support.
A full Orlando Amstel Arena would not only deliver a significant financial boost on the opening weekend, but also reinforce the Buccaneers’ reputation as one of the best-followed clubs in South African football.
Such backing would give the Betway Premiership holders a powerful platform as they embark on the defence of the league title and seek to build on the historic achievements of last season.
