Plymouth Argyle vs Orlando Pirates predictions, betting tips and match previews for this pre-season friendly clash. Wayne Rooney’s tenure as Plymouth Argyle head coach begins Friday against South African side Orlando Pirates in Marbella. Read on for our free predictions and betting tips.
Club Friendlies | Jul 12, 2024 at 7pm UK at Harper’s Park (Marbella)
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Plymouth Argyle vs Orlando Pirates Predictions
Can Rooney’s Plymouth Argyle Triumph Over Orlando Pirates in Marbella?
Key Stats
– Plymouth Argyle averaged 13 shots per game last season, highlighting their attacking intent.
– Orlando Pirates maintained a 61.1% possession rate, showcasing their control and composure on the ball.
– Morgan Whittaker scored 19 goals in the Championship last season, making him a key player to watch.
As Wayne Rooney begins his tenure as head coach of Plymouth Argyle, expectations are high for the Championship side. The first test of his leadership comes on Friday evening against South African outfit Orlando Pirates in Marbella. This friendly will serve as a crucial warm-up for the Pilgrims as they gear up for the upcoming season. Given the stakes and the fresh faces in both squads, this match promises to be a fascinating contest.
Team Backgrounds and Recent Performances
Plymouth Argyle narrowly avoided relegation last season, finishing 21st in the Championship, just one point clear of the drop. This precarious finish led to significant changes, including the appointment of Rooney, who aims to instil a winning mentality at Home Park. The Pilgrims concluded their 2023-24 campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Hull City, demonstrating their resilience and potential under pressure.
Orlando Pirates, on the other hand, come into this match after a successful campaign in South Africa. They secured the Nedbank Cup with a 2-1 win over Mamelodi Sundowns and finished as runners-up in the South African Premier Division. Their strong performance domestically makes them a formidable opponent, and they will be looking to maintain their form on this Spanish tour.
Key Players and Expected Lineups
Plymouth Argyle’s new signings, including Nathanael Ogbeta, Darko Gyabi, Ibrahim Cissoko, and Muhamed Tijani, are expected to feature prominently. Rooney is likely to start with a lineup that includes Cooper in goal, a defensive trio of Phillips, Scarr, and Gibson, with Edwards, Randell, Devine, and Mumba in midfield. Up front, Whittaker, Hardie, and Bundu will look to spearhead the attack. Whittaker, who netted 19 times last season, remains a pivotal figure despite ongoing transfer speculation.
Orlando Pirates, managed by Jose Riveiro, will also introduce new faces such as Thalente Mbatha, Gilberto, and Bayanda Thabethe. Their potential starting lineup includes Gumede between the sticks, a defensive line of Ndah, Sibisi, Sesane, and Maela, with Mbatha, Kimvuidi, Dlamini, and Matrose in midfield. Kapinga and Radiopane, back from a loan spell, are set to lead the attack.
Tactical Analysis and Gameplay Predictions
Rooney’s approach at Plymouth is expected to focus on a high-tempo, aggressive style, leveraging the pace and skill of his forwards. The team’s average of 13 shots per game and 4.7 shots on target last season indicates a willingness to create opportunities, although their conversion rate needs improvement. Defensively, Plymouth’s 1.5 goals conceded per game suggests vulnerabilities that Rooney will need to address.
Orlando Pirates boast a solid defensive record, conceding just 0.9 goals per game and keeping 12 clean sheets in the South African Premier Division. Their ball possession rate of 61.1% reflects a preference for control and composure, with accurate passing metrics highlighting their ability to dictate play. Offensively, they average 1.5 goals per game, with a notable success rate in big chances created.
Key Areas and Player Duels
The midfield battle will be pivotal, with Plymouth’s Randell and Devine up against Orlando’s Mbatha and Dlamini. Randell’s passing accuracy and ability to recover balls will be crucial in disrupting Orlando’s rhythm. On the flanks, Mumba’s dribbling skills and attacking thrust will challenge Orlando’s full-backs, particularly Ndah and Maela.
Up front, Whittaker’s goal-scoring prowess will be tested against Sibisi’s defensive solidity. Whittaker’s movement and ability to exploit spaces could be the deciding factor if Plymouth are to breach Orlando’s organised defence.
Critique and Suggestions for Improvement
Plymouth Argyle need to improve their defensive organisation, as conceding 70 goals last season highlights significant lapses. Rooney must instil discipline and better communication among his defenders. Additionally, increasing their attacking efficiency, particularly in converting chances, will be vital.
Orlando Pirates, while defensively sound, need to enhance their attacking variety. Riveiro’s side sometimes lack creativity in breaking down well-organised defences, relying heavily on individual brilliance. Integrating their new signings effectively and fostering a more dynamic attacking approach could yield better results.
Managerial Analysis and Criticisms
Wayne Rooney’s managerial career has been a mixed bag, with notable highs and lows. His departure from Birmingham City was swift, raising questions about his long-term strategic vision. At Plymouth, his challenge lies in building a cohesive unit that can compete consistently. Rooney’s tactical flexibility and ability to motivate his players will be under scrutiny, particularly in high-pressure scenarios.
Jose Riveiro, in contrast, has demonstrated tactical acumen and consistency with Orlando Pirates. However, his conservative approach in big matches sometimes limits the team’s potential. Encouraging a more adventurous style, particularly in key fixtures, could elevate Orlando Pirates to new heights.
Expected Goals Averages and Betting Angles
Plymouth Argyle’s average of 1.3 goals per game, combined with their defensive record, suggests matches with a moderate number of goals. Their frequent involvement in games with over 3.5 goals last season makes this a compelling betting angle.
Orlando Pirates’ defensive solidity contrasts with Plymouth’s more open style. Their matches often feature fewer goals, but their efficiency in front of goal and disciplined defence present a balanced betting opportunity.
Match Predictions
Best Bet: Over 3.5 Goals
This friendly is likely to see both teams testing their offensive setups. Plymouth’s defensive frailties and Orlando’s attacking efficiency suggest a high-scoring affair. With both sides looking to implement their strategies, goals are expected to flow freely.
Correct Score: Plymouth Argyle 3-2 Orlando Pirates
Aligning with the high goal expectation, a 3-2 victory for Plymouth seems plausible. Rooney’s side will be keen to impress, while Orlando’s quality ensures they will be competitive.
Goalscorer Prediction: Morgan Whittaker
Given his impressive goal tally last season and his integral role in Plymouth’s attack, Whittaker is likely to find the net. His positioning and finishing skills make him a constant threat.
Corner Prediction: Over 10 Corners
Both teams’ attacking tendencies and set-piece routines suggest a match with numerous corners. Plymouth average 5.4 corners per game, and Orlando’s 6 corners per match support this prediction.
Innovative Market Prediction: Total Team Shots on Target Over 10.5
Plymouth’s average of 4.7 shots on target per game, combined with Orlando’s 4.4, indicates a match with plenty of goalmouth action. Both teams’ emphasis on creating chances makes this a valuable market.
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