As always, Betway Premiership giants Orlando Pirates made very good use of the transfer window. Here’s the full list of new players.
ORLANDO PIRATES SIGN FOUR PLAYERS FOR THE FIRST TEAM
The Soweto giants have secured four new signings for the new season, while an added list has been signed for the DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) team.
The new faces include a right back, central midfielder, winger and an attacking midfielder.
- Selaelo Rasebotja, 26, midfielder (SuperSport United)
- Gilberto, 23, winger (Petro Luanda, Angola)
- Thuso Moleleki, 24, forward (Orbit College)
- Deano Van Rooyen, 27, right back (Stellenbosch FC).
10 PLAYERS RELEASED
Orlando Pirates surprised us with the announcement of Lesedi Kapinga’s exit last week. He became the 10th goodbye since June.
Following an extended pre-season that included a trip to Spain, three MTN8 matches, and three CAF Champions League matches, the Sea Robbers coach Jose Riveiro has decided the 29-year-old attacker Kapinga is no longer in his plans.
The decision comes just over a season since the Musina-born player joined from Mamelodi Sundowns as a free agent.
Kapinga follows after the likes of Kermit Erasmus, Richard Ofori, Siphelo Baloni, Fortune Makaringe and Vincent Pule out of the Orlando Pirates gate this season.
FULL LIST OF DEPARTURES
1. Souiabou Marou
2. Fortune Makaringe
3. Siyabonga Mpontshane
4. Richard Ofori
5. Kermit Erasmus
6. Thabang Monare
7. Vincent Pule
8. Azola Matrose
9. Siphelo Baloni
10. Lesedi Kapinga.
PASEKA MAKO RETURNS FOR ORLANDO PIRATES
It’s been a long while. Orlando Pirates have announced the return of Paseko Mako.
As confirmed by the Sea Robbers, the 30-year-old Mako has come out of the dark shadows of a knee ligament injury since October 2023.
“I’m so excited to be back on the field. The journey wasn’t easy but I’m eager to rejoin the team and contribute to the team’s success,” said Mako, as quoted by FARPost.
“It’s time to push myself; I’m ready to give my all again. Thanks to everyone who encouraged and supported me during my recovery,” the Orlando Pirates left-back concluded.
FULL STATEMENT
“Orlando Pirates’ options at left-back have been bolstered by the return of defender Paseka Mako, who has resumed training following an injury lay-off.
“The 30-year-old has been sidelined for a lengthy period, having last featured for the Buccaneers in October last year. This is after sustaining a knee ligament injury while on international duty, shortly after debuting for South Africa in a Friendly against Eswatini.
“Following a successful surgery and subsequent rehabilitation, Mako has made significant strides in his recovery process. He resumed light training in August and has now been declared fit to join his teammates in their preparations for the start of their Betway Premiership campaign.
“Adding depth and experience to the squad along with a tireless fighting spirit, Mako’s return to fitness comes as a welcome boost for the Soweto Giants, who face a busy season that includes league football, domestic cup competitions, and participation in the CAF Champions League,” – Orlando Pirates statement on Paseka Mako’s return.
Meanwhile, the Buccaneers will be kicking off the Betway Premiership season at home to Chippa United at 19:30 this evening.
