Orlando Pirates are still searching for defensive stability following the departure of top defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi in December.
The 20-year-old defender left the Buccaneers to join Chicago Fire, leaving a noticeable gap at the back. His exit has exposed vulnerabilities in coach Abdeslam Ouaddou’s side.
During the first half of the season, Pirates looked solid in defence, largely thanks to the partnership between Lebone Seema and Mbokazi.
The duo played a key role in helping the team win two finals and were widely regarded as the best defensive pairing in the league.
Pirates need quality defender
Mbokazi’s departure opened the door for club captain Nkosinathi Sibisi to return to the starting lineup. Sibisi had previously been sidelined for much of the campaign due to Mbokazi’s impressive form.
However, the current combination of Sibisi and Seema has yet to fully convince. There have been defensive lapses, with individual errors proving costly for the Buccaneers on several occasions.
Supporters have since called on Ouaddou to give Thabiso Sesane an opportunity. The 25-year-old was one of Pirates’ standout performers in the 2024/25 season before an injury cut his campaign short.
Despite recovering, Sesane is yet to feature in an official match this season, with Ouaddou instead opting to bring in Mpho Chabatsane to the club. Chabatsane is a good defender and top signing for Pirates but he might not fit in better than Sesane.
Given his previous form, Sesane could provide the stability Pirates are currently lacking and may be a natural fit alongside Seema as the Buccaneers look to rebuild a reliable defensive partnership.
The TS Galaxy match could have been the perfect game for Sesane to make his awaited return. A good 15 minutes would have done him good.
The unfortunate part is that Orlando Pirates could lose the highly rated defender next season.
