Orlando Pirates’ reserve team left-back Tshepo Mhlambi has travelled with the big boys to Durban this weekend.
The Carling Knockout champions will take on the Carling All-Star XI on Saturday at 15:00. The 18-year-old Mhlambi got his plane ticket with the travelling squad, stepping in as most regular senior players rest or gear up for AFCON 2025.
TSHEPO MHLAMBI POISED FOR ORLANDO PIRATES SENIOR DEBUT
Mhlambi put up his hand to coach Abdeslam Ouaddou after leading the Orlando Pirates reserve team to first place in the DStv Diski Challenge first round with 10 wins from 13.
Hailing from Mbalenhle, Mpumalanga, Mlhambi is expected to start or share the minutes with Nkosikhona Ndaba, while the veteran Deon Hotto will enjoy a rest.
Orlando Pirates’ foes this weekend won’t be slouches. The star-studded team, voted for by fans, includes Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Brandon Petersen and right winger Mfundo Vilakazi, who is likely to face Mhlambi.
MARCELO ALLENDE AND ARTHUR SALES
Mamelodi Sundowns duo of Marcelo Allende and Arthur Sales will also lead the All Stars XI, with Golden Arrows coach Manqoba Mngqithi voted as the coach.
FULL ALL-STAR STARTING XI
Brandon Petersen – Kaizer Chiefs, Keabetswe Khonyane – Siwelele FC, Sikhosonke Langa- Sekhukhune United, Vincent Sithole – Mamelodi Sundowns, Thabo Nkabinde – Mamelodi Sundowns, Marcelo Allende – Mamelodi Sundowns, Thulani Mabaso – Kaizer Chiefs, Mfundo Vilakazi – Kaizer Chiefs, Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo – Marumo Gallants, Naledi Hlongwane – Kaizer Chiefs, Arthur Sales – Mamelodi Sundowns.
WHAT HAPPENED LAST SEASON?
Former Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro was in charge of the All-Star team that faced the Carling Knockout champions Stellenbosch FC, with Stellies winning 2-1.
How the 2024 team lined up:
Itumeleng Khune, Masibonge Ngidi, Olisa Ndah, Ramahlwe Mphahlelele, Jabuani Mokone, Mfundo Vilakazi, Edson Castillo, Siphamandla Zikhali, Kagiso Mnguni, Kermit Erasmus, Ashley Du Preez
Subs: Zoey Monyepao, Sipho Chaine, Yanga Madiba, Njabulo Ngcobo, Paseka Mako, Reeve Frosler, Ndabyithethwa Ndlondlo, Thulani Mabaso, Thembinkosi Lorch, Mduduzi Shabalala, Victor Letsoalo, Vicky Mkhwawana.