Latest news with #MakhehleniMakhaula
The South African
2 days ago
- Sport
- The South African
Orlando Pirates to be without THREE key players for Sundowns clash
Orlando Pirates will be without at least three key players when they take on Mamelodi Sundowns this weekend in the MTN8 semi-final. The Buccaneers host Masandawana in the first leg of the semi-final at the Orlando Stadium on Saturday afternoon. The two giants met in the final of the 2023 MTN8 and the Sea Robbers won the match on penalties. On Saturday, Orlando Pirates will have to beat Sundowns without the likes of Nkosinathi Sibisi and Makhehleni Makhaula. The club head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou confirmed that three experienced players will not involved in Saturday's anticipated clash. 'Most of the players are available, we only have [Nkosinathi] Sibisi, [Makhehleni] Makhaula, who is still coming back from his injury,' he said as per iDiski Times. 'We still have [Olisa] Ndah out but most of the players are still available.' The Buccaneers have started the season on a backfoot following back-to-back league defeats. Their form in the MTN8 has been impressive having won the competition four times in the past five years. Against Downs, they should have an advantage given the fact that they are playing the first leg at home. Their opponents appear to found their groove with their mid-week win and will look to claim another victory at the Orlando Stadium. Orlando Pirates desperately need to beat Sundowns to get their season on track. A draw will be a decent result given their form but defeat could put more pressure on Ouaddou. 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 Citizen
07-07-2025
- Sport
- The Citizen
Interest in Chiefs-linked Margeman grows
Margeman all but confirmed his exit from SuperSport with a farewell message on social media. Makhehleni Makhaula of Orlando Pirates challenges Grant Magerman of Supersport United FC during 2024 MTN8 Quarterfinal match on the 03 August 2024 at Orlando Stadium in Soweto © Sydney Mahlangu/BackpagePix AmaZulu and Stellenbosch FC have joined the race to sign highly-rated midfielder Grant Margeman, who is set to leave SuperSport United following the club's sale of its PSL status to Siwelele FC. Chiefs-linked Margeman The 27-year-old has also been linked with Kaizer Chiefs, but recent developments suggest that both Usuthu and Stellies are making serious efforts to secure his services ahead of the new season. ALSO READ: Chiefs' Peterson – We suffer now to shine later Margeman all but confirmed his exit from SuperSport with a farewell message on social media, indicating that he will not be part of the new Siwelele setup. The former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder enjoyed a resurgence during his time at United, where he was named Players' Player of the Season for the 2022/23 campaign. Eager AmaZulu Sources close to the situation reveal that AmaZulu are particularly eager to strengthen their midfield options following the surprise departure of Ethan Brooks, who made 23 league appearances last season. ALSO READ: Banyana 'ready' for Ghana battle Margeman's experience and versatility in the heart of midfield make him a sought-after talent, and with multiple suitors lining up, expect the duminitive midfielder to find a new home before the new season gets underway.
The South African
06-07-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Orlando Pirates news: 10 midfielders and two West Africans
Orlando Pirates have turned heads in the Betway Premiership with the headline signing of players like Sipho Mbule. The 27-year-old was only one of four new additions to the club's engine. Others include Masindi Nemtajela, Sihle Nduli, and Abdoulaye Mariko. Below is a full look at coach Abdeslam Ouaddou's 10 midfielders available in his rather illustrious Orlando Pirates squad. The newly arrived Moroccan coach Ouaddou will have the luxury of multiple combinations and flexible formations. His options can see the Orlando Pirates play any formation, be it 4-3-3, 4-2-3-1, 4-5-1, or 3-4-3, next season. The A-list features four defending midfielders, three creative midfielders and three players who can play in both defensive and creative midfield roles. Among the most experienced players are the 35-year-old Makhehleni Makhaula with 259 matches, and Sihle Nduli, aged 29, with 147 matches at TS Galaxy and Stellenbosch FC. Full List of 15 players: Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates signings Simphiwe Selepe, 20 Makhehleni Makhaula, 35 Makhehleni Makhaula, 35 Thalente Mbatha, 25… Full story here. Kaizer Chiefs transfer news: Midfielder and two forwards Orlando Pirates might complete a 10th signing before the 2025/26 Betway Premiership and CAF Champions League seasons. As reported last week, the Buccaneers signed Yanela Mbuthuma, Masindi Nemtajela, Tshepang Moremi, Nkosikhona Ndaba, Sinoxolo Kwayiba, Tshepo Mashiloane, Sihle Nduli and Sipho Mbule. A ninth signing that is imminent is the 23-year-old Mali international Abdouyale Mariko, and that's not all. According to the latest reports, Orlando Pirates have submitted an offer to sign another Malian star, Sadio Kounate… Full story here. 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
03-06-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Orlando Pirates midfield veteran signs new contract
Orlando Pirates have rewarded Makhehleni Makhaula with a new one-year contract to keep him at the club until 2026. 35-year-old midfield enforcer Makhehleni Makhaula will stay with Pirates for another season. He made 44 appearances for the Sea Robbers across all competitions in 2024-2025, making him a virtually indispensable member of the first team. Big changes at Pirates for the senior players Club captain Innocent Maela and veteran midfielder Miguel Timm are both leaving Pirates. There are also whispers that top earner Deon Hotto could be following them out of the exit door. One X user said: 'Do not touch King Hotto,' presumably suggesting that the club would be foolish to release the versatile 34-year-old Deon Hotto. The Namibian is still a dependable player and popular among fans and teammates, and managers, comfortable in several positions and tactical systems. Since joining from Wits in 2020, club stalwart Hotto has notched up over 200 appearances, collecting six trophies. To say he's an underrated performer is a massive understatement. THEORY: Orlando Pirates need to strengthen these three positions Let us know by leaving a comment below or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Also, subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
26-05-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Orlando Pirates shock fans with contract extension for 35-year-old
Orlando Pirates have stunned supporters by handing veteran midfielder Makhehleni Makhaula a new contract. Ensuring he remains part of their plans for another season. The 35-year-old stalwart has signed a one-year extension that keeps him at the club until the end of next season. 'I can confirm that (Makhehleni) Makhaula has signed a one-year contract extension that will keep him at Pirates until the end of next season,' a source told The South African. Makhaula joined the Buccaneers from AmaZulu in January 2022 and initially found game time hard to come by. However, he fought tirelessly to establish himself, eventually becoming a core part of the squad. His journey, marked by determination and perseverance, has transformed him into one of the club's most dependable players. This season, Makhaula played a pivotal role in guiding the team to the CAF Champions League semi-finals, where Pirates narrowly missed out against Egyptian giants Pyramids. His performance in the midfield has consistently stood out, making him indispensable in high-pressure fixtures. Since donning the black and white jersey, Makhaula has lifted two MTN8 titles and two Nedbank Cups with Pirates. His leadership and experience have helped shape the club's recent success. While his presence on and off the pitch continues to inspire younger players. With 83 appearances across all competitions, including 44 this season alone, and two goals to his name. Makhaula remains a key figure in the Pirates' engine room. Although this extension is likely to be his last, it offers him the chance to close his chapter at the club on a high. The club moved swiftly to secure Makhaula's signature before his contract expired, underlining how much they value his influence. This decision reflects Pirates' trust in his ability to continue delivering. Both as a player and a leader in the dressing room. Is this a good decision to keep Makhaula at Orlando Pirates? 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.
