Orlando Pirates Strengthen Squad With New Signings

Orlando Pirates have moved decisively in the market, landing three of the country’s brightest prospects while quietly reshaping the back end of their squad ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The Buccaneers have confirmed the arrivals of Neo Rapoo, Aphiwe Baliti and Matome Mmolai, a trio that speaks to a clear strategy: younger, quicker, technically sharper – and built for the long haul.

Rapoo: Modern Full-Back for a Modern Pirates

Neo Rapoo arrives from Siwelele FC with a profile that fits the modern game perfectly.

The 20-year-old left-back, a product of SuperSport United’s development system, already has youth international experience with South Africa and a reputation for playing on the front foot. He defends with aggression, but once he wins the ball, he doesn’t just clear it – he drives forward, links play and stretches the pitch.

Energy. Technique. Potential. Pirates are banking on all three.

In a league where full-backs increasingly decide games in both boxes, Rapoo’s ability to defend his flank and then surge into attacking areas gives the coaching staff a flexible weapon on the left. At just 20, he walks into a demanding environment, but his profile suggests he has the tools to grow quickly in black and white.

Baliti: Versatility Parked, but Not Forgotten

Also crossing from Siwelele is 24-year-old defender Aphiwe Baliti, another left-back by trade but with a broader defensive palette.

Baliti can operate on either side of the back line, a rare and valuable trait in a long, attritional season. He brings domestic top-flight experience, strong athleticism and the kind of adaptability that allows coaches to tweak systems without tearing up the team sheet.

There is a twist, though. Pirates have signed him, but he won’t be in their dressing room this season.

Baliti will return to Siwelele FC on a season-long loan for the 2026/27 campaign, a move that keeps him playing regular first-team football while Pirates monitor his progress from a distance. It’s a classic long-game decision: secure the talent now, polish it in familiar surroundings, then bring back a more complete defender.

Mmolai Adds Spark and Control in Midfield

Completing the trio is central midfielder Matome Mmolai, who joins from Leicesterford City.

At 23, Mmolai offers an intriguing blend: energetic enough to cover ground and press, composed enough on the ball to dictate tempo. Comfortable in possession and capable of contributing in different phases of play, he gives Pirates another option between the lines, someone who can knit defence and attack without fuss.

In a squad that already boasts quality in the middle, his arrival sharpens competition. It also hints at a more fluid, technically driven approach in the engine room as the new campaign approaches.

Departures: Familiar Faces Move On

While fresh talent comes through the door, Pirates have also confirmed key exits.

Gomolemo Khoto and Siyabonga Ndlozi have completed permanent moves to Sekhukhune United, drawing a firm line under their time with the Buccaneers. Both now get the chance to carve out bigger roles at Babina Noko, away from the traffic of a crowded Pirates squad.

Right-back Tshepho Mashiloane is also heading back to Sekhukhune United on a season-long loan, returning to Babina Noko in search of more minutes and momentum.

So the picture is clear. Youthful full-backs secured, a dynamic midfielder added, and the pathway cleared for those on the fringes. Orlando Pirates are not just filling gaps – they are quietly redrawing the outline of the team they want to be when the new season kicks off.