Orlando Pirates Ratings: Who FIRED, who FLOPPED

Orlando Pirates beat Polokwane City to book their spot in the MTN 8 semi-finals.

Orlando Pirates beat Polokwane City 2-0 in the quarter finals of the MTN8 on Saturday, 02 August 2025.

So, let’s take a look at the players who fired on all cylinders. As well as the players who performed slightly below-par.

WHO FIRED FOR PIRATES

Oswin Appollis – 8.5

Appollis kick-started his Pirates career off in fine fashion. So, he scored a goal and won a penalty to help inspire the Bucs to a 2-0 win. He remained a constant threat on attack. Furthermore, Appollis kept the Polokwane City defenders busy with his pace and skill.

Sipho Mbule – 7.5

Mbule is set to become a new Bucs fan-favourite. “Master Chef” cooked in the midfield on debut. He was composed and solid in the midfield. Thereafter, a solid 70-minutes ended with fans chanting “Weh Mbule” in appreciation for his first impressive debut.

Sihle Nduli – 7.5

Meanwhile, Nduli also had a very strong debut. The former Stellenbosch FC midfielder was like a magnet in the midfield with Nduli. He knew when to counter and when to play it back. Also, he was great defensively too.

Deon Hotto 7.5

Finally, the Bucs veteran showed why he is still highly rated at Pirates. Hotto hardly put a foot wrong and as he was solid at the back. The Polokwane Wingers were well marked by Hotto who stood his ground. He also knew when to make overlapping runs on the counter to offer himself as an attacking option.

WHO FLOPPED FOR THE BUCS

Bandile Shandu – 6.5

Shandu didn’t have a bad outing but it was far from his best. He was beaten on defence a couple of times and was not as sharp as he usually is on defence.

Relebohile Mofokeng – 6.5

There is no doubt that Mofokeng is one of the best young players in the PSL. However, on Saturday he was overshadowed by Appollis and Radiopane on attack. Most of the attacks came from the right side.