Orlando Pirates strongest XI that can potentially WIN the league

Orlando Pirates are yet to win a league title since 2012 despite coming close several times in the past six years.

Last season, they pushed champions Mamelodi Sundowns but ultimately fell off in the final few matches of the season. With 11 new signings, many Bucs faithful feel the team is ready to once again take the fight to Masandawana.

With the new signings and a new coach, it might take time for some players to get used to the system. So far, the team has looked somewhat flat in the pre-season and will need to improve before their season opener against Polokwane City.

Here’s Orlando Pirates squad that can win the league

Goalkeeper: Sipho Chaine

The 28-year-old keeper has looked solid in goals and is no doubt SA’s number two behind Ronwen Williams.

Right-back: Deano van Rooyen

Van Rooyen has impressed since joining the Buccaneers last season. He is good in attack and defence and if he’s injury-free, he might play a vital role in helping his team improve from last season.

Centre-back: Nkosinathi Sibisi

Sibisi had some great games for the Buccaneers last season. The experienced defender will need to be consistent if Orlando Pirates are to win the league.

Centre-back: Mbekezile Mbokazi

At 19, Mbokazi is rated one of the best PSL defenders. The KZN-born defender only played less than 15 matches for Pirates but already established himself as a key player in the team.

Left-Back: Deon Hotto

The Namibian versatile attacker can play different positions, and in the past, he has excelled at left-back. If he can operate on the left hand side of defence, then Abdeslam Ouaddou’s team will be balanced at the back with three experienced players.

Defensive midfielder: Makhehlene Makhaula

The 36-year-old has played the destroyer role perfectly in the middle of the park. He will need to once again be on top of his game to ensure that Orlando Pirates chase that elusive league title. A fit Makhaula is bad news for 15 other teams.

Central midfielder: Sipho Mbule

Mbule is an upgrade from Thalenthe Mbatha. If the ex-Mamelodi Sundowns star can stay focused, he could drive the team, which lacked a consistent central midfielder.

Attacking midfielder: Patrick Maswanganyi

Tito has been hot and cold last season but maybe Pirates signing Sinoxolo Kwayiba will force him to pull up his socks.

Left winger: Relebohile Mofokeng

Mofokeng might stay for another season, and if he stays, good news for the Buccaneers. He normally operates on the left but he can be effective if he combines well with Van Rooyen on the right.

Right winger: Oswin Appollis

Appollis is no doubt the best signing of the season so far. The 23-year-old will add more to the Pirates attack given his experience with the national team. He can combine well with Tito, Mofokeng and Tshegofatso Mabasa.

Striker: Tshegofatso Mabasa

Mabasa should be preferred ahead of Evidence Makgopa. He has scored 17 goals in the 2023/24 season and perhaps this could be his redemption arc. If Orlando Pirates are to win the league, they need to have a core of their old players at their best.

If the Sea Robbers are to stop Downs’ dominance, new players have to deliver, whether from the bench or as starters.