Lepasa is on fire. Image: ©Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix
Huge changes afoot at Orlando Pirates!
The landscape at Orlando Pirates looks very different compared to this time next season. Let’s take a closer look.
Lepasa is on fire. Image: ©Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix
Orlando Pirates aren’t resting on their laurels after scooping two domestic trophies last season.
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Orlando Pirates shake things up with numerous ins and outs
Pirates have brought in a number of marquee names, including Melusi Buthelezi, Karim Kimvuidi, Katlego Otladisa, Patrick Maswanganyi, Lesedi Kapinga and Siphelo Baloni. It’s clear that Jose Riveiro and his technical team want to take things up a notch in terms of quality.
The Buccaneers also have parted ways with 15 players, either permanently or on loan:
- Ntsako Makhubela
- Craig Martin
- Nkanyiso Zungu
- Siphesihle Ndlovu
- Bongani Sam
- Goodman Mosele
- Tshegofatso Mabasa
- Ndumiso Mabena
- Kwame Peprah
- Terrence Dzvukamanja
- Ronaldo Maarman
- Tebogo Tlolane
- Collins Makgaka
- Boitumelo Radiopane
- Azola Tshobeni
PSL: When does the PSL transfer window close?
Saleng is still the main man
Monnapule Saleng has the star quality and match-winning capabilities to steer The Sea Robbers into the latter stages of the continental competition and the local cups. Saleng hit 15 goals and 11 assists in 30 matches across all competitions last term, a staggering return for a winger. He was the only PSL player to his double figures for both metrics. Zakhele Lepasa, back at the club after a loan spell, has started the season strongly with two goals in the league.
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What’s on the horizon?
Pirates are slap bang in the middle of a frenetic schedule, but that comes with the territory. The Buccaneers were the first Southern Hemisphere team in history to win CAF Champions League glory back in 2012 and they’re back in Africa’s premier club competition. The Bucs hold a 1-0 first-leg lead over Djabal in their CAF Champions League first preliminary round clash. They’ll also be eager to defend their MTN8 crown, they face Stellenbosch over two semi-finals in September.
Their pedigree as a footballing institution is beyond question, but supporters demand a legit PSL title challenge this season. A domestic league crown is the bread and butter for supporters.
RUMOUR: Orlando Pirates in danger of losing talisman to Europe
Meanwhile, hit up James Freemantle for more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game of football.
Also, follow The South African on Twitter for up-to-the-minute news updates.
