Latest news with #Buccaneers'
The South African
2 days ago
- Sport
- The South African
‘My blood is red, my skin is black': Orlando Pirates lose another youth product
Orlando Pirates youth product Azola Tshobeni shared a heartfelt message with the club ahead of his move to Chippa United. ADVERTISEMENT The 23-year-old midfielder came from the Buccaneers' development ranks, but failed to break into the first team. Having spent time with JDR Stars on loan, Tshobeni will now play for the Chilli Boys this coming season. In his message, the departing Orlandi Pirates midfielder thanked the club for nurturing him. 'This club took me in as a young boy, nurtured me, and helped shape me into who I am today – not just as a player, but as a person, both on and off the pitch. For that, I will be forever grateful. 'To the Club, the Chairman, the incredible supporters, all the coaches-from development to the first team – and, most of all, to my teammates, who I've had the privilege of sharing a locker room with for all these years, I can't thank you enough. You've all been a part of this journey, and I'll carry those moments with me forever. ADVERTISEMENT Orlando Pirates youth product joins Chippa 'It's been an honour to represent one of the biggest clubs on the continent for so long, especially at such a young age. I'm proud of what we've achieved together, and I know my family shares that pride. 'But as much as this chapter has meant to me, it's time for me to embrace new challenges and see the full extent of the potential I know I have. 'My blood is Red, my skin is black, and my bones are white. Thank you for everything.' Another Orlando Pirates youth product who recently left is Mohau Nkota. The 20-year-old made a surprise move to Saudi Arabia earlier this month. ADVERTISEMENT Who should Pirates buy next? Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
2 days ago
- Sport
- The South African
Orlando Pirates leave Sakala amid hunt for proven striker
Orlando Pirates recently gave Zambian forward Enock Sakala Jr. a shot to impress during their pre-season, but the club continues to explore international striker options to strengthen their frontline ahead of the 2025/2026 campaign. The 23-year-old striker, last seen turning out for Chippa United, joined the Buccaneers' early pre-season training sessions in Johannesburg. Although Pirates have not officially announced him as a new signing, Sakala appeared in training footage from the camp, sparking a wave of speculation among supporters and media. Reports indicate that Sakala left a solid impression on the coaching staff during his time with the team. However, his limited game time last season, just six appearances and a solitary goal since joining Chippa in February, may have raised concerns about his readiness to make an immediate impact. Despite the positive signs, Pirates have not yet sealed a deal with Sakala. Fresh information from Zambia hints that the club may be leaning towards a more experienced and impactful addition to their attack. 'He seems to have impressed during his time with the squad, but Pirates are still keeping their options open,' a source said. 'They might be looking at other strikers internationally and will go with someone who can hit the ground running, a forward who can immediately help them score goals and compete for trophies,' the source added. With the season opener fast approaching, Pirates are finalising their squad. Their first competitive clash comes next Saturday in the MTN8 quarter-final against Polokwane City. The battle for attacking slots remains fierce. Tshegofatso Mabasa and Evidence Makgopa lead the line with authority, while Boitumelo Radiopane continues to push for more minutes. New recruit Yanela Mbuthuma has also entered the picture. Increasing the pressure on any new arrival to prove themselves instantly. Will Orlando Pirates sign another forward? 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.
The South African
6 days ago
- Sport
- The South African
WATCH: Mofokeng rounds keeper to seal first pre-season win for Orlando Pirates
Relebohile Mofokeng came off the bench to secure a 2-0 victory for Orlando Pirates against Granada on Saturday evening in Spain. This match was the Buccaneers' fourth and final pre-season game, and they needed a strong performance to boost their confidence ahead of the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season. After losing their first match against Bolton Wanderers last week, Orlando Pirates had played two successive draws before facing Granada. In the first half of the game, the team looked positive and could have taken the lead, but their lack of finishing let them down. In the second half, the Sea Robbers continued to press for a goal, but again struggled with finishing. While the Spanish side also created some chances, they were unable to convert them. Mofokeng was introduced in the second half as Pirates searched for the winner. Their persistence paid off when Patrick Maswanganyi blasted a shot past the Granada keeper after the ball fell at his feet. The Buccaneers continued to push for a second goal, which came in the 90th minute when Relebohile dribbled past the keeper, giving Orlando Pirates their first victory of the pre-season. Having played in four matches in Spain, 'President Ya Ma 2000' scored two times. The 20-year-old has recently been in the spotlight regarding his future, and this match may have been his last in Pirates colours. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
6 days ago
- Sport
- The South African
Orlando Pirates superstar Relebohile Mofokeng set to leave!
Orlando Pirates main man Relebohile Mofokeng looks set to follow in the footsteps of Mohau Nkota and leave the club. Mofokeng has risen to stardom in South Africa after breaking through into the Buccaneers' first team in 2023. Since making his debut for the club, Mofokeng has made 89 appearances for Orlando Pirates. In total, he scored 18 goals while assisting 22 more. READ MORE • R20 million Mamelodi Sundowns star wanted by Siwelele FC! READ MORE • How much Orlando Pirates paid for Oswin Appollis! According to the latest transfer gossip, Relebohile Mofokeng is set to complete a move to the Middle East! Al Ettifaq, the same club that Mohau Nkota has joined, are deep in negotiations with the Orlando Pirates over the signature of their talisman! Reputable local publication Unplayable have claimed that a deal is expected to be reached soon! Mofokeng is valued at a whopping R33 million according to Transfermarkt . In order to land the Bafana Bafana ace, a substantial offer will undoubtedly be required! READ MORE • Orlando Pirates cut ties with fan-favourite worth R14.5 million! What do you think is a fair price for Al Ettifaq to pay for Relebohile Mofokeng? Considering the fact that he's only 20-years-old, surely he'll fetch more than his market value? Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article or by emailing info@ or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. You can also follow @ TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest news.
USA Today
18-07-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Buccaneers predicted to cut 2024 starter as they get close to training camp
The Buccaneers' secondary in 2024 was a significant issue for the defense, and as a result, it forced the offense to engage in shootouts week in and week out. The team knew they had to address that group on defense during free agency or the draft, and they did that when they selected Benjamin Morrison and Jacob Parrish in April. Because of the influx of youth from the NFL Draft, Bleacher Report's Moe Moton is suggesting the Bucs make a move in his latest piece. He wrote about eight bold predictions heading into the new season and one involved Bucs' veteran cornerback Jamel Dean. He is the latest to throw his hat into the ring, suggesting the team move on from him. Moton writes, "Tampa Bay double-dipped at cornerback, taking Benjamin Morrison and Jacob Parrish in the second and third rounds, respectively. Both have experience lining up on the boundary. General manager Jason Licht believes Morrison will be ready to participate at training camp following hip surgery. If Morrison or Parrish shines in the summer, the Buccaneers may see Dean as an expendable veteran, especially with his current contract situation. Tampa Bay would save $12.9 million in cap space if it cuts him, per Over the Cap. Dean's short-term future in Tampa Bay may hinge upon the performances of two rookies at his position." Dean has been with the Bucs since the team drafted him in 2019, so he was a part of their Super Bowl LV team. His veteran leadership is vital to the younger defenders in the secondary, but the price tag makes it a tougher conversation for him to stay. Seeing how reps are split up during training camp, starting next week, will help paint a clearer picture in this scenario.
