To the surprise of millions, Orlando Pirates announced the signing of the 21-year-old winger on loan from Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq on 3 September.
Playing on the right side of the attack means Nkota faces direct competition with Ghampani Lungu and Bafana Bafana international Tshepang Moremi. These are some of coach Ouaddou’s most beloved soldiers. They do not only deliver goals and assists, but also the relentless work rate off the ball.
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GHAMPANI LUNGU HAS RETURNED FOR ORLANDO PIRATES FROM INJURY
The Zambian attacker has made an instant impact since signing from Siwelele FC in June 2026. Lungu has delivered no less than four goals and one assist in seven appearances, despite missing as many matches through injury.
His impact has included delivering in a high-pressure moment with an extra-time winner against Durban City in the MTN8 semifinals.
The Orlando Pirates winger is more than his goals. He has offered 13 key passes and averaged 146 touches. He has made tackles and one interception in his seven appearances.
Lungu is just one of two fierce competitors Nkota has to face.
THEN THERE IS TSHEPANG MOREMI
While some players may need extended time to break into the Orlando Pirates side, the same can’t be said about Moremi. The former AmaZulu winger became an instant regular with 26 games in his debut season. The run included five goals and four assists.
Despite missing a chunk of September through injury, Moremi has kick-started the current season with three goals in seven games. Off the ball, Moremi has made 22 tackles and eight interceptions this season. These are the levels facing Nkota.
If Nkota can match or surpass those numbers while delivering the same intensity without the ball, his chances of becoming a regular starter will increase.
Meanwhile, Orlando Pirates face Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 final on Saturday, 10 October at Moses Mabhida Stadium. Kick-off is at 18:00.
WILL NKOTA BREAK INTO THE TEAM?
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