Orlando Pirates New Signings Impress as Buccaneers Enjoy Strong Start to the Season

Orlando Pirates will be pleased with the contributions of their new signings as the Buccaneers prepare to pause their domestic campaign for the latest FIFA international break.

The Soweto giants have enjoyed an encouraging start to the 2026/27 season, with several newly recruited players making important contributions under head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.

Pirates strengthened their squad during the transfer window by bringing in fresh talent to improve competition across different positions. The new arrivals were expected to help the club maintain its high standards after an impressive previous campaign, and several of them have already shown why they were brought to Orlando.

Among the players who have attracted attention is Gamphani Lungu, whose impressive performances earned him a return to the Zambia national team. The attacker has made a positive impression since joining the Buccaneers and has already demonstrated his ability to contribute in different attacking positions.

Midfielder Thapelo Mokobodi has also been an important addition to the squad. His energy, creativity and ability to influence proceedings in midfield have provided Ouaddou with another option as Pirates continue competing across different competitions.

Defender Lebone Seema is another new arrival who has made significant progress. His performances have not only strengthened the Pirates defence but also earned him recognition at international level with Bafana Bafana.

The defender made his senior international debut during South Africa’s 5-0 victory over Eritrea before earning his first start in the subsequent friendly against Egypt.

Meanwhile, Yanela Mbuthuma has also benefited from his opportunities, showing his attacking qualities and contributing goals and assists during the campaign.

Mpho Padime has equally taken advantage of his opportunities, scoring the winning goal in Pirates’ 1-0 Carling Knockout Cup quarter-final victory over Sekhukhune United on Saturday, November 7.

The latest victory extended Pirates’ winning run to six matches across all competitions and secured their place in the semi-finals.

As the international break approaches, five Pirates players have earned places in the latest Bafana Bafana squad, namely Sipho Chaine, Lebone Seema, Thalente Mbatha, Oswin Appollis and Tshepang Moremi.

For Ouaddou, the contributions of the new arrivals provide encouraging signs as the Buccaneers prepare for the next phase of their campaign.

Smithy_You feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com