The Orlando Pirates top brass have some monumental decisions to make before the transfer window closes later this month. Who stays and who goes?
Pirates board must weigh up Appollis offers
According to widespread local reports, Pirates’ resolve will be tested regarding star winger Oswin Appollis. An unnamed foreign club wants to sign the 25-year-old Bafana star, and if the price is right, the board will have to consider a sale. The arrival of Mohau Nkota on loan could provide some consolation for fans, but would the 21-year-old be able to hit the ground running and replicate Appollis’ output? He joined in July 2025 and has already become integral to the cause, chipping in with nine goals and six assists in 30 league outings last term. Yes, he played every single Betway Premiership match. Availability is one of the most important traits a player can possess. What fee would be enough to convince Pirates to sell their most important operator?
Nkota is back at Pirates with a point to prove
Nkota’s 21 Saudi Pro League appearances last term only yielded two goals and three assists. It’s understandable, then, that the 21-year-old is back in South Africa to find his form again on loan. Nkota will vie for one of two wide starting roles with Tshepang Moremi, Oswin Appollis and Gamphani Lungu. If only two of those players can start regularly, which two are the odd ones out?Â
What’s on the horizon for the Buccaneering Sea Robbers?
The Sea Robbers drew 0-0 with Mauritian side La Cure Waves FC in the first leg of a CAF Champions League qualifier. The second leg is on Saturday, 12 September. The defending Betway Premiership champions then turn their attention back to league action against Durban City on 17 September. Pirates have won their last four domestic outings, including the MTN8 semi-finals, with 1-0, 2-0, 3-0 and 4-0 scorelines. The odds of them beating City 5-0 are incredibly slim, but not zero.
What’s your ideal starting XI for Pirates against Durban City next Thursday?
