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Orlando Pirates win transfer battle as Oswin Appollis chooses Soweto move over Kaizer Chiefs offer

Oswin Appollis
Oswin Appollis

As the transfer window heats up, emotions are running high in South African football circles—and Kaizer Chiefs supporters are feeling the sting.

Just when fans were hoping for a big signing, Oswin Appollis, one of the most sought-after young players in the league, chose to sign with Orlando Pirates instead.

And for many Chiefs fans, that decision has hit like a punch to the gut.

Chiefs Miss Out on Appollis as Pirates Clinch the Deal

Both Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs had been chasing the signature of the 23-year-old for some time—dating all the way back to the last transfer window.

But on Friday, it was confirmed that the Buccaneers have successfully brought Appollis on board.

For Chiefs fans, already anxious about the club’s quiet transfer activity, this was not the news they were hoping for.

Fans Are Growing Impatient Over Chiefs’ Transfer Silence

Even before the Appollis announcement dropped, murmurs of frustration had already started growing among Kaizer Chiefs supporters.

While Pirates have now secured nine new signings, Chiefs have yet to officially unveil any fresh faces.

The silence has been deafening—and fans are beginning to wonder what’s really going on behind the scenes.

Jessica Motaung Tries to Reassure the Amakhosi Faithful

Last week, club executive Jessica Motaung tried to ease some of the tension with a public statement addressing the current transfer situation.

“It’s great to see the players back and in good shape,” she said.

“They’ve stayed fit, focused, and ready to tackle what lies ahead.”

But it wasn’t just about fitness and training—Motaung confirmed that work is happening behind the scenes to bring in new talent.

Transfers Are in the Works, But Patience Is Needed

According to Motaung, the club’s technical team and sporting department are actively scouting and negotiating for new signings ahead of the new campaign.

“We’re definitely working on intakes for the season,” she explained.

“Hopefully fans will get to see some of those new players at the Toyota Cup or in our preseason matches.”

She also stressed that the transfer window is still open, meaning fans shouldn’t panic just yet: “The deals we’re working on now aren’t final—we’re still open to signing more players as the window progresses.”

Chiefs Still Focused on Bigger Goals

Motaung wrapped up her message by reiterating the club’s broader vision, saying the ultimate goal is to reclaim Kaizer Chiefs’ rightful place both domestically and across the African continent.

“There’s a lot of work being done to make sure we keep rising,” she said.

But with rivals like Pirates wasting no time in strengthening their squad, Chiefs supporters are understandably hoping that vision starts taking shape—soon.

Over to You, Chiefs Fans

So, how do you feel about Appollis heading to the other side of Soweto?

Was this a painful miss, or do you think the club has something bigger planned?