Orlando Pirates have been knocking on the door of greatness across Africa for a while now, but if they want to truly dominate, they’ll need to make some smart adjustments.
The team is close to being a regular powerhouse on the continent, but a little “surgery” in key positions could be the game-changer they need.
Central Midfield: Time for a Fresh Face
Right now, Makhehlene Makhaula is doing a solid job as a defensive midfielder, but he’s not getting any younger — he’ll be 36 this November.
That means Pirates should be thinking about the future, ideally finding a strong, commanding central midfielder to share duties or even ease Makhaula’s workload.
There’s been talk about snapping up someone like Teboho Mokoena — not necessarily Mokoena himself, but a player of similar calibre.
This kind of midfield general would partner well with Thalente Mbatha or allow Mbatha more freedom to push forward and create chances higher up the pitch.
New Signing Brings Excitement: Kwayiba Joins the Buccaneers
Good news for Pirates fans: they’ve just secured Sinoxolo Kwayiba from Chippa United.
The 25-year-old midfielder has impressed this season with six goals and an assist in 25 league appearances.
Kwayiba’s also caught the eye of national coach Hugo Broos, who recently called him up for South Africa’s June friendlies.
Hailing from Gqeberha, Kwayiba is known for his creativity and energy in midfield — traits that could bring some fresh spark to the Pirates lineup.
Do Pirates Need a New Striker to Shake Things Up?
Pirates already have some strong attacking options with Tshegofatso Mabasa, Evidence Makgopa, and Boitumelo Radiopane, but there’s speculation they might be after a different type of striker.
Fiston Mayele’s name keeps popping up in the media, but he’s over 30 and comes with a hefty price tag rumored to be around R12 million.
Will Pirates go for experience or stick with their current crop of forwards?
Right-Back Reinforcement on the Way with Matuludi
On the defensive side, there’s promising news about Thabang Matuludi from Polokwane City potentially joining the Buccaneers.
This signing would strengthen their options at right-back.
However, it seems the Buccaneers might miss out on winger Oswin Appollis, who reportedly prefers a move to Kaizer Chiefs.
While losing out on Appollis might sting, it could turn out to be a blessing in disguise as Pirates focus on other priorities.
Broos’ Confidence in Young Talent Like Selepe
Coach Hugo Broos has expressed his trust in players like Selepe for the national team, showing he believes in the younger crop of talent to step up when needed.
That confidence could bode well for Pirates as they develop their squad.
Can Orlando Pirates Finally Lift Major Trophies This Season?
The big question on everyone’s mind: can Orlando Pirates make the leap from contenders to champions?
With the right moves in midfield, attack, and defense, could they finally clinch glory in the CAF Champions League and the Betway Premiership?