Orlando Pirates have really built a powerful and exciting squad under Jose Riveiro.
Right now, the Buccaneers are flying high — sitting second in the PSL standings, reaching the Nedbank Cup final, and making it all the way to the CAF Champions League semi-finals. It’s clear that Riveiro has put together a balanced and dangerous team.
Meanwhile, things aren’t looking as good across town. Kaizer Chiefs are stuck in eighth place in the Betway Premiership. Their only hope of saving face this season is by trying to beat Pirates in the Nedbank Cup final on 10 May 2025.
Honestly, when you compare the two squads, most of the current Chiefs players wouldn’t even make the Pirates bench. Let’s break it down:
Chiefs players who would struggle at Pirates
In goal, Bruce Bvuma, Brandon Peterson, and Fiacre Ntwari have all had shaky moments this season for Chiefs. Pirates, on the other hand, have Sipho Chaine — who has been solid and consistent between the sticks.
In defence, Pirates are stacked with quality like Tapelo Xoki and Nkosinathi Sibisi. Maybe Rushwin Dortley could compete for a spot since he’s a Bafana Bafana international, and Njabulo Blom might have a chance too — but only if he hits top form.
Midfield is another area where Pirates are much stronger. With the likes of Yusuf Maart, the red-hot Patrick Maswanganyi, and Thalente Mbatha, it’s hard to see many Chiefs midfielders getting a look-in. Gaston Sirino and Mdu Shabalala might cause Riveiro a few selection headaches, though.
When it comes to the attack, Pirates are simply too strong. Relebohile Mofokeng, Mohau Nkota, Monnapule Saleng (at his best), and Tshegofatso Mabasa lead a lethal frontline. Honestly, I don’t think any of the current Amakhosi forwards would break into Riveiro’s starting XI.
