Orlando Pirates could have some mixed news on the transfer front. Headline players could be leaving and arriving.
Orlando Pirates players star in Bafana Bafana win
South Africa claimed a 2-1 win over Angola in their AFCON 2025 opener. The goals came from Orlando Pirates winger Oswin Appollis and ex-Pirates man Lyle Foster. Buccaneers attacker Tshepang Moremi, a second-half substitute, also had the ball in the net on 51 minutes, but VAR ruled the goal out for offside. Hugo Broos’ men are next in action against Egypt on Boxing Day, with kickoff at 17:00 SA time. Here are their two remaining group fixtures:
Pirates to sign De Jong, but could lose Mabasa
Meanwhile, 29-year-old New Zealander Andre de Jong is on the brink of sealing a switch from Stellenbosch to the Sea Robbers. Known for his tactical intelligence and work ethic, he operates best just behind a striker. This now makes a move for an out-and-out striker less likely. Evidence Makgopa is currently the first choice for club and country, while Yanela Mbuthuma is a capable backup, and Boitumelo Radiopane is waiting in the wings. The immediate future of Tshegofatso Mabasa is unclear; the 2023-24 PSL Golden Boot winner has emerged as a target for Kaizer Chiefs. An official announcement of the signing of De Jong is imminent, with the New Zealander one of several potential targets. With Mbekezeli Mbokazi joining the Chicago Fire, Pirates are looking at two replacements.
Will the Orlando Pirates board regret letting go of Mabasa?