Momentum seems to be back in Orlando Pirates’ corner.
After a shaky start to the season, the Buccaneers have turned things around in style with three straight league victories.
On top of that, they’ve booked themselves a spot in the MTN8 final for the fourth time in a row — a sign that their fighting spirit is very much alive.
A Rocky Beginning Under a New Coach
When Abdeslam Ouaddou took charge in June, things didn’t click right away.
The Moroccan coach inherited a big task after replacing Jose Riveiro, and early setbacks in the Betway Premiership raised a few eyebrows.
But now, it looks like Ouaddou has steadied the ship and found a winning formula.
Riveiro’s Short-Lived Egyptian Adventure
As for Riveiro, the Spaniard left the Buccaneers for Al Ahly in Egypt, but his stay was far from smooth — just seven matches in, he was shown the door.
There have been whispers about him possibly making a PSL return, but he’s been clear about one thing: if he ever coaches in South Africa again, it would only be with Orlando Pirates.
“Once a Pirate, always a Pirate,” he reminded fans earlier this year, insisting that the Buccaneers are the only team in the country he could ever see himself leading.
The Iron Duke Reflects on Club Legends
Club chairman Dr Irvin Khoza, famously known as the “Iron Duke,” has also been reflecting on the legacy of Pirates.
In a recent chat with Robert Marawa, he proudly listed some of the greatest players to have worn the black-and-white jersey — names like Jomo Sono, Kaizer Motaung, King Kaizer Matatazela, Scara Son, and Chipa Chipa Moloi.
He challenged today’s stars to etch their names into that same history, reminding them that being a Buccaneer comes with the responsibility of leaving a mark.
Eyes on More Silverware
With 12 fresh signings, Khoza is aiming big.
The club has its sights set on reclaiming the Betway Premiership and making a strong run in the CAF Champions League.
But before all that, there’s an immediate test: this weekend’s MTN8 clash against Stellenbosch, where a massive R10 million prize is on the line.
What Lies Ahead for the Buccaneers?
The big question now is: which trophies can Pirates realistically bring home this season? Their revival has sparked hope, and fans will be eager to see if this momentum carries them all the way to silverware glory.