Mpho Padime winger has officially bearned promotion to the Buccaneers’ senior squad ahead of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season after an outstanding campaign in the DStv Diski Challenge.
Born in June 2007 in Katlehong, Johannesburg, Padime first made his name in township football while playing for Khathorus Juventus FC. His dazzling dribbling, blistering pace and entertaining “Kasi Flava” style quickly attracted interest from several clubs.
Although Kaizer Chiefs offered him a development contract, the teenage star chose to join Orlando Pirates in September 2025.
His decision has already paid off. Playing under Roscoe Krieling in the DStv Diski Challenge, Padime scored 10 goals and provided nine assists during the 2025/26 season. His 19 goal contributions helped the Buccaneers win the reserve league title with a record-breaking 75 points.
The winger also travelled with the first team on their pre-season tour of Spain. He featured against Córdoba CF and UD Las Palmas, where he continued to impress the technical team.
ORLANDO PIRATES HAND PADIME ICONIC NUMBER
With Mofokeng completing his move to Europe earlier this month, Orlando Pirates have handed the number 38 jersey to one of the club’s brightest young prospects.
The shirt became synonymous with Mofokeng, who developed into one of South Africa’s biggest stars before securing his overseas move. Padime will now hope to build his own legacy in the same number.
The jersey change also reflects the club’s growing faith in academy talent. Padime is among several DStv Diski Challenge graduates promoted to the senior squad as Abdeslam Ouaddou prepares for his first season in charge of the reigning Betway Premiership champions.
