Injuries in key areas killed off a legitimate Betway Premiership title charge for Orlando Pirates in 2025-2026.
However, they’ve addressed the issue this time around.
Do they boast the best squad in South Africa?
Injury to Sesane killed Orlando Pirates’ title challenge
When Thabiso Sesane was cut down with a serious injury in February, nobody knew how profound an effect that event would have on Pirates’ title charge. On paper, central defence was arguably the team’s deepest resource with Tapelo Xoki, Olisa Ndah and Nkosinathi Sibisi as options. However, Ndah also battled injuries, and both Xoki and Sibisi suffered dips in form last term. The late-season emergence of an outstandingly gifted star, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, was a huge boost, but none of the club’s existing centre-halves could offer Sesane’s unique skill set. The 25-year-old was quietly and effectively becoming the marshal of Pirates’ back four.
Central defenders at Orlando Pirates
In 2025-2025, things look a little different. Sesane is still out (although he’s on the comeback trail) while Ndah remains sidelined, but it isn’t hurting them as much this season. The emergence of the young pairing of Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Lebone Seema has been a timely godsend. When Sesane returns, coach Ouaddou will have some big decisions to make. With only five goals conceded after ten league outings, Pirates boast the best defence in the land.
- Nkosinathi Sibisi, 30
- Tapelo Xoki, 30
- Olisa Ndah, 27
- Thabiso Sesane, 25
- Lebone Seema, 22
- Mbekezeli Mbokazi, 20
What’s next in the league?
The Sea Robbers are second in the league, three points adrift of leaders Sundowns. However, Abdeslam Ouaddou’s men have two games in hand. Their next test is a home match with Chippa on Saturday, 22 November at 15:30. Youngster Rele Mofokeng has 42 direct goal contributions after 102 outings for the Sea Robbers.
