Orlando Pirates have been playing fantastic football this season and are undoubtedly the best team in the league at the moment.
Under new coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, the Buccaneers have bounced back after a slow start to the 2025/26 Betway Premiership.
With the MTN8 trophy already in their cabinet, Pirates are now setting their sights on the elusive Carling Knockout Cup. With just three points separating them from log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, the Sea Robbers must be confident in their ability to overtake their rivals, especially since they have two matches in hand.
Here’s how Orlando Pirates can win the league:
This season, Pirates have brought in nearly 15 new players, so Ouaddou is under pressure to secure the league title. So far, he has made several changes to his lineup, but the core of the team has remained consistent.
Here’s what the strongest eleven might look like:
Goalkeeper: Sipho Chaine
The former Chippa United keeper has been instrumental in goal for three seasons and remains a vital leader for the team.
Right Back: Thabiso Lebitso
Lebitso has proven to be a perfect fit since his return to the first team. He replaced the injured Deano van Rooyen and has performed admirably. Both he and van Rooyen can rotate, ensuring Orlando Pirates remain solid defensively.
Centre Back: Lebone Seema
The young defender has benched captain Nkosinathi Sibisi, and with his constant improvement, it seems unlikely that the skipper will reclaim his spot anytime soon.
Centre Back: Mbekezile Mbokazi
Often referred to as “TLB,” he is not only the best defender in the country but also one of the top defenders on the continent. At just 20 years old, he has propelled the team to new heights and is undoubtedly one of Pirates’ key players.
Left Back: Nkosikhona Ndaba
The 23-year-old left-back has had limited game time since joining the Buccaneers this season. However, he has showcased his sharpness, and with a steadier run, he could potentially replace Deon Hotto. The Namibian has served the club well over the years, but has become more of a liability this season.
Central Midfielder: Sidle Nduli
The experienced midfielder has felt at home since his transfer to Orlando Pirates. His strong work rate has not gone unnoticed by the fans, making him the ideal replacement for Makhehlene Makhaula, who has been sidelined due to injury.
Central Midfielder: Thalente Mbatha
A fan favourite since joining from SuperSport, this tall midfielder is known for his long-range shooting, high energy, and work rate, which should earn him a starting position in most games.
Winger: Oswin Appollis
After Mbokazi, Appollis is considered Orlando Pirates’ best player. The speedy winger has delivered impressive performances by both creating and scoring in crucial matches since his arrival in July. Coming from the left flank, the ex-Polokwane City star is currently in great form, making it likely that bigger teams will soon seek his signature.
Playmaker: Relebohile Mofokeng
At just 21 years old, he has struggled to regain the form that made him one of the most exciting teenagers in African football. With players like Appollis and Tshepang Moremi grabbing the spotlight, he needs to recover from injury and reclaim his position. He will need to step up as a playmaker in the number 10 role.
Winger: Tshepang Moremi
Since he arrived from AmaZulu, Moremi has been enjoying his time at Pirates despite a slow start. His crucial goals have earned him a call-up to the national team.
Striker: Tshegofatso Mabasa
With Mofokeng, Appollis, and Moremi in attacking positions, the team needs a poacher like Mabasa. Although the 28-year-old striker has not played much under Ouaddou, he remains Orlando Pirates’ best striker. If the Buccaneers want to win the league, they should consider starting matches with Mabasa.
