The Orlando Pirates camp is still riding high after their Soweto Derby triumph over Kaizer Chiefs, but they’ll have to navigate their next test without two key players.
Mbatha and Sibisi Suspended for Arrows Showdown
Defensive stalwart Nkosinathi Sibisi and midfield engine Thalente Mbatha are ruled out of Tuesday night’s (06 May, 19:30) league clash against Golden Arrows. Both players are suspended due to card accumulation, forcing coach Jose Riveiro to make changes in a crucial stage of the title race.
Teen Talent ‘Nasri’ Set for Pirates Return
18-year-old sensation Thabo Mphaki, nicknamed ‘Nasri’ due to his silky playmaking skills reminiscent of French maestro Samir Nasri, could be recalled from his loan spell at Wits. The exciting midfielder, who started at Kaizer Chiefs, is being closely monitored by the Bucs technical team.
Young Blood Joins Senior Training Camp
Promising trio Simphiwe Selepe, Cemran Dansin, and 17-year-old Sibusiso Tau have been spotted training with the Pirates’ senior squad. Dansin, the current captain of the DStv Diski Challenge team, and Tau, recently recruited from Emalahleni United, are seen as part of the club’s next generation of stars.
Benni McCarthy – A Future Bucs Boss?
Could a return to Soweto be on the cards for Benni McCarthy? The former AmaZulu and Cape Town City coach—now in charge of Kenya’s national team—has built up a respectable coaching CV, including a stint as an attacking coach at Manchester United, where he lifted the 2023-24 FA Cup. With silverware and international experience under his belt, McCarthy remains a fan favorite and potential future coach of the Buccaneers.
