Best Orlando Pirates XI with THREE new marquee names
How does this XI look, Bucs fans?
Orlando Pirates have been linked with several new players in January including some talented Bafana Bafana stars.
Pirates target Basadien with Maela and Hotto on the way out
With Paseka Mako and Innocent Maela not necessarily long-term options at left-backs, and Deon Hotto reaching the twilight of an impressive career, Pirates want to upgrade in that portion of the pitch. According to SNL, Pirates are in pole position to sign in-demand left-back Fawaaz Basadien. The 28-year-old Stellies man has been a mainstay down that flank for the Winelands club, and his form has seen him earn national team recognition. He has two goals and two assists from 10 Betway Prem appearances this term, a stellar output for a full-back. He’s also got four goal involvements in seven CAF Confederation Cup outings. Meanwhile, in MTN8 action, Basadien has two goals and an assist this term. The Buccaneers also have their eyes on in-demand winger Oswin Appollis and Thabang Matuludi, the sturdy right-back from Polokwane City. Are the Sea Robbers aiming to rejuvenate their full-back options completely?
Best Orlando Pirates XI with three rumoured additions
This hypothetical XI includes Oswin Appollis, Fawaaz Basadien and Thabang Matuludi. Would someone like Mohau Nkota feel hard done by to lose his place? Do Pirates need Matuludi after spending considerable cash on Deano Van Rooyen from Stellenbosch? 26-year-old Matuludi has two goals and an assist from 12 league appearances this term.
Chaine; Matuludi, Sesane, Sibisi, Basadien; Mbatha, Timm; Appollis, Maswanganyi, Mofokeng; Mabasa.
Sibisi extends his stay
Central defender Nkosinathi Sibisi is extending terms with the Buccaneers. The 29-year-old has become a mainstay in the heart of defence for Pirates, making 10 league appearances this term and seven in the Champions League. Across all competitions, his tally of matches in 2024-2025 stands at 20. It’s clear that Sibisi has manager Jose Riveiro’s trust.
Royal AM vs Pirates postponed
The Premier Soccer League (PSL) on Wednesday announced it had suspended all matches involving Royal AM until the KwaZulu-Natal club presents its case to the league on Friday. They are under curatorship from Sars. The club were scheduled to meet Orlando Pirates on Thursday evening but the clash has been postponed.
Would Basadien and Appollis walk into the side if they signed for Pirates?
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