Latest news with #Al-EttifaqFC
TimesLIVE
02-08-2025
- Sport
- TimesLIVE
Pirates through to MTN8 semis after beating Polokwane City
Maswanganyi had played Mofokeng through, and the winger crossed for his Bafana Bafana teammate Appollis who was rough tackled by Batlhabane just as he was creating space to double Pirates' lead. Pirates did, however, look vulnerable on the counter especially because Nduli tended to play high up field when in fact it was he who was expected to shield the defence from attack. With the signing of Appollis and Moremi it did look like Pirates were ready for the departure of Mohau Nkota who was recently snapped by Saudi Arabia Al-Ettifaq FC. When Appollis suffered cramps early in the second half Ouaddou responded by bringing on Moremi. Mbutthuma too got a decent run on his debut after replacing a tired looking Radiopane the same minute Appollis was withdrawn. Mbuthuma could have tripled Pirates' lead a few seconds after coming as he was put through by Maswanganyi but looked not warm enough to react and punish the visitors. The former Richards Bay striker nearly made amends a few minutes before the end when his shot was cleared off the line as the home side finished stronger. Kabelo Dlamini and Malian midfielder Mariko did come on for Maswanganyi and Mbule as Ouaddou looked to manage and protect their lead in the dying minutes of this encounter - a sold-out affair in what was the first fixture in the PSL in the 2025-2026 campaign. While Ouaddou's era began with a comfortable win, it may be too early to judge whether he will surpass what Riveiro did – winning five domestic cups while failing to capture the Betway Premiership - a title Pirates last won in 2012.
The South African
22-07-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Orlando Pirates promote wonderkid amid transfer storm
Orlando Pirates have taken decisive steps to reinforce their squad ahead of a jam-packed season, promoting exciting young forward Neo Mokoena to the senior team. This move comes hot on the heels of Mohau Nkota's transfer to Saudi Arabia's Al-Ettifaq FC and amid intensifying rumours surrounding Relebohile Mofokeng's potential move abroad. P Management Sports confirmed Mokoena's promotion on X, stating the talented youngster has officially signed a first team contract with the Soweto giants. He becomes the latest product of the DStv Diski Challenge to make the leap into the senior side. A testament to the club's ongoing commitment to nurturing homegrown talent. With a relentless season ahead that includes challenges in the CAF Champions League, Betway Premiership, MTN8, Nedbank Cup and Carling Knockout, Pirates appear to be planning well in advance. Mokoena's promotion bolsters their attacking depth and maintains the vital flow of youth players into the senior setup. A source close to the club believes Mokoena's elevation directly addresses Nkota's departure and could also serve as a contingency plan in the event of Mofokeng's exit. Relebohile Mofokeng has drawn massive attention following a stellar 2024/2025 campaign that earned him five PSL award nominations. His electrifying pre-season tour in Spain only added fuel to the fire. With several European clubs reportedly keeping tabs on the dynamic attacker. Though Pirates have not issued any formal statement regarding Mofokeng's future or potential player departures. The club's actions suggest they are already laying the groundwork to ensure stability and squad depth regardless of any looming exits. Development remains at the core Neo Mokoena joins a growing list of academy graduates stepping up to the first team, including Mofokeng, Nkota, Thabiso Sesane, Siyabonga Ndlozi, and Boitumelo Radiopane. Pirates have clearly doubled down on their youth policy. Which ensures that the next generation of talent continues to feed into their senior ranks. This strategy not only preserves the club's identity but also positions them strongly for long-term success. As they juggle domestic and continental commitments in the upcoming campaign. Will Orlando Pirates let Mofokeng go? Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
