Orlando Pirates to play La Liga side in R16 million tournament in America

Orlando Pirates have confirmed they will participate in The Soccer Tournament (TST), a lucrative seven-a-side competition held in Cary, North Carolina, from May 27 to June 1.

The Buccaneers will join a growing list of international clubs, including Spanish La Liga side Villarreal and Mexican powerhouse Club América, in the 48-team men’s event.

The tournament is known for its high-stakes, winner-takes-all format, with a $1 million (R16.5 million) prize awaiting the champion.

Orlando Pirates thrilled with tournament

Currently leading the South African top flight on goal difference, Pirates will be the first team from the African continent to compete in the global spectacle. The competition begins with a group stage on May 27 before progressing to knockout rounds to decide the winner.

In an official statement, the club expressed its pride in making history. “Orlando Pirates Football Club is proud to announce that it will participate in the upcoming The Soccer Tournament (TST) later this year in the United States of America,” the statement read. “In doing so, the Buccaneers will make history as the first club from the African continent to compete in the global 7-a-side spectacle.”

The club highlighted the tournament’s rapid growth and unique appeal, noting it “has rapidly grown into one of the most exciting new events on the international football calendar.”

Opportunity to market Bucs brand

Marketing Manager Sindi Sibisi emphasised the strategic importance of their participation. “For Orlando Pirates, participation in TST represents far more than just a football tournament,” Sibisi said.

“It provides the club with an opportunity to showcase the Buccaneers brand on a global stage, engage with new audiences and supporters across the world, and further cement its ambition of expanding the reach of the club beyond the African continent.”

Other confirmed teams for the men’s tournament include KRU FC, Kwik Goal FC, Bumpy Pitch FC, and several others from the American soccer scene. Orlando Pirates will announce their 16-man squad for the event at a later date.