THE FUSE

Orlando Pirates have a surplus of quality options in all departments. That could see them selling a few popular stars in January.

Tshegofatso Mabasa could be on the move as their number 9 options continue to grow.

At the other end of the pitch, there could also be some popular casualties.

Mabasa is too good to sit on the Orlando Pirates bench

Tshegofatso Mabasa was the finest striker in the country in 2024, but he might have no option but to leave as he sits behind several players in the pecking order. 23-year-old Yanela Mbuthuma has scored a match-winning brace off the bench in the club’s last league match, a 3-1 success at Golden Arrows. Mabasa, despite being a fringe operator this term, still has four goals and an assist from 10 appearances across all competitions.

Sesane’s injury killed Pirates’ title charge last term

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.

Orlando Pirates have considerable defensive depth

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