South African Premier Soccer League side Orlando Pirates have confirmed they will take part in The Soccer Tournament (TST) in Cary, North Carolina, from May 27 to June 1. The announcement means the current league leaders will join an expanding international field at the event, which has previously drawn clubs such as Spain’s Villarreal and Mexico’s Club América.
TST is a seven-a-side, winner-take-all competition played over several days in a festival-style environment. Although specific details of Orlando Pirates’ squad for the tournament have not been made public, the club’s participation marks a notable step for one of Africa’s most recognized teams in a growing, made-for-broadcast soccer format based in the United States.
Orlando Pirates, founded in 1937 and based in Johannesburg, are among South Africa’s most storied clubs, with a large national following and a history of domestic success. Their decision to enter TST highlights the tournament’s increasing appeal to established clubs seeking new competitive and commercial opportunities beyond their regular league and cup calendars.
The event in Cary brings together teams from different countries and backgrounds, including professional clubs, alumni squads and specially assembled rosters. Matches are played under modified rules designed to create a fast tempo, frequent scoring opportunities and a definitive finish. Organizers have promoted the competition as a showcase for skill, creativity and attacking play.
For Orlando Pirates, the trip to North Carolina will provide exposure to a new audience in the United States and a chance to measure themselves in an unfamiliar format against international opposition. It also offers an opportunity for the club to deepen its brand presence abroad while engaging with South African and African diaspora communities in North America.
Further information about Orlando Pirates’ roster, group opponents and match schedule at TST has not yet been released, but their confirmation adds another prominent name to a tournament that continues to attract interest from clubs and supporters around the world.
