Moremi And Msendami Strike As Orlando Pirates Overcome Early Shock To Sink Cádiz
South African treble winners Orlando Pirates claimed their first victory of their pre-season tour of Spain with a 2-1 win over Segunda División outfit Cádiz at the Marbella Football Center on Saturday evening.
The match was Pirates’ second outing of the tour as they continued their preparations for the 2026/27 season. The Buccaneers entered the encounter in search of their first win after playing to a 1-1 draw against fellow Spanish side Córdoba in their opening pre-season fixture.
Pirates still have three friendlies remaining in Spain before returning to South Africa, where they will begin their 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign against newly promoted Milford on 1 August.
Cádiz made the perfect start, taking the lead inside the opening five minutes. Ibon Sánchez found the back of the net with a right-footed finish from the centre of the six-yard box after being picked out by captain Álvaro García.
Despite the early setback, Pirates responded superbly and quickly found their rhythm. The Soweto giants levelled matters in the 10th minute through Tshepang Moremi, who curled a stunning left-footed strike from outside the penalty area into the top corner after Deon Hotto’s corner was only partially cleared.
The Spanish side nearly restored their advantage in the 35th minute when García unleashed a right-footed effort from the right side of the penalty area, but Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine produced an outstanding save to keep the scores level.
Just before the half-time whistle, Pirates completed the turnaround. Daniel Msendami calmly slotted home with a right-footed finish from the centre of the box after Moremi turned provider with a well-weighted assist, giving the Buccaneers a 2-1 lead at the break.
This marks Msendami’s very first unofficial goal for Pirates since his high-profile transfer from Marumo Gallants, instantly justifying his placement in Abdelsam Ouaddou’s system.
The visitors almost extended their advantage in the 55th minute when Neo Rapoo tested Cádiz goalkeeper David Gil with a powerful left-footed free-kick from the edge of the penalty area. Gil reacted sharply to push the effort away and keep his side within touching distance.
Cádiz continued to press for an equaliser and came close in the 82nd minute, but Pirates substitute goalkeeper Siyabonga Dladla produced two excellent saves from long-range efforts to preserve his side’s lead.
Both teams created chances during an entertaining closing spell, but neither could find another goal. Pirates held firm to secure a deserved 2-1 victory, earning their first win of the pre-season tour ahead of their remaining three friendly matches in Spain.
