Former Pirates striker sees no hope for Gallants at Orlando

Former Orlando Pirates marksman Jimmy Kauleza believes Marumo Gallants are in for a long afternoon as the Buccaneers look to tighten their grip on the Betway Premiership title race this Valentine’s Day.

As Abdeslam Ouaddou’s men prepare to host Gallants at the Orlando Amstel Arena today (15:30 CAT), the stakes are crystal clear: a victory will catapult Pirates six points clear of second-placed Mamelodi Sundowns. While the Brazilians are busy with CAF Champions League duties, Kauleza insists Pirates must seize the moment to kill off the chasing pack.

𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐂𝐇_𝐃𝐀𝐘

🆚 @_Marumogallants
🗓️ Saturday,14 February 2026
🏟️ Orlando Amstel Arena
🚪12:30
⏱️ 𝟏𝟑:𝟑𝟎-𝟏𝟒:𝟑𝟎 |🎼 @njelic_sa
⏱️ 15:30
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📺 @Official_SABC1

⚫⚪🔴⭐#OrlandoPirates#OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/BZGJeTws2E

— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) February 14, 2026

No Room for Mercy Against Pirates

Kauleza, who knows the weight of the Ghost’s expectations, says the current Pirates side has developed a ruthless streak when facing the league’s “minnows.”

“Pirates don’t joke around with small teams,” Kauleza told KickOff. “I think the fact that Sundowns are playing Champions League gives Pirates a huge advantage, especially since Sundowns are not playing well this season. In fact, Pirates always abuse these small teams.”

The retired striker believes the timing of this fixture is perfect for the Soweto giants to lay down a marker before their high-octane midweek clash against Masandawana.

While Pirates have been the pacesetters this term, Kauleza warns that the “second half” of the season is where pretenders are separated from contenders.

“The league starts in the second round, to be honest. So, the season has just begun,” he explained. “Such games will test Pirates if they are the real deal as far as winning the league is concerned. It’s going to test their consistency.”

With Sundowns distracted by continental commitments and struggling for domestic rhythm, Kauleza is adamant that the destiny of the trophy is now firmly in the hands of the Sea Robbers.

“This season’s championship is in the hands of Pirates. This is another chance for them to open a gap. The worst result for them will be a draw, but I expect a win.”