Orlando Pirates stand at a crossroads. Although they can add a second Champions League crown to their trophy cabinet, long-term worries persist.
Mofokeng won’t stay at Orlando Pirates forever
Relebohile Mofokeng has racked up a staggering 41 appearances in the 2024-2025 season across all competitions. Arguably the club’s most important operator, he’s produced 10 goals and 13 assists in those matches. It’s a stellar output for any player, let alone one who’s just exited his teens. Is there a succession plan for he inevitably leaves for a wealthier league abroad? Money can buy good players, but some stars are priceless. Pirates have unearthed a new teenager, but he’s unlikely to make an impact for some time.
Champions League glory is three matches away
The eventual winners of this season’s Caf Champions League will take home $4 million (R75 million). That number has grown from $2.5 million in 2022. Orlando Pirates must negotiate a tough second-leg semi-final clash in Egypt against Pyramids after a hard-fought 0-0 draw in the first leg. If they advance to the final, either Mamelodi Sundowns or defending champions Al Ahly await them in another two-legged affair to crown the continent’s finest side.
Mayele want to dash the dreams of Orlando Pirates
Pirates have kept clean sheets in seven of their last eight matches across all competitions. The only stain on that record was the Sundowns game, which they won 2-1 anyway. If anybody can breach this staunch defensive unit, however, it’s Kaizer Chiefs target Fiston Mayele. The Pyramids FC man has an exemplary record in the Champions League, with six goals in 10 outings this term. Overall, he’s scored 19 times in 34 appearances in Africa’s premier club competition.
Who do you think is the most realistic long-term replacement for Rele Mofokeng?
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