Pirates Prodigy Mohau Nkota: On the Cusp of First Team Glory!

Orlando Pirates' celebrated winger, Mohau Nkota, has made a much-anticipated return to Soweto, signing a season-long loan deal from Saudi-Arabian side Al-Ettifaq. The 21-year-old attacker, originally from Kimberly, arrived last month nursing a knee injury. After a month under the care of the club's medical staff, Nkota was recently seen participating in full training sessions, signaling his imminent return to action. He has been spotted wearing jersey number 21, which became available following Deano Van Rooyen's departure on August 21st. Nkota previously wore number 33 before his surprising move to West Asia.

During his initial stint with the Orlando Pirates, Nkota proved to be a prolific force, delivering an impressive seven goals and five assists across 39 appearances. He made a memorable debut in 2024, scoring a brace against AmaZulu FC, and followed this with another brace on his CAF Champions League debut away to CR Belouizdad in Algeria, showcasing his knack for high-stakes performances.

His move to Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq was also marked by immediate impact. Nkota etched his name in history by becoming the first South African footballer to score in the Saudi Pro League, finding the net just seven minutes into his league debut during a 2–1 victory over Al-Kholood. He went on to make 22 appearances for Al-Ettifaq, contributing two goals and three assists. However, his progress was severely hampered by a serious knee injury that necessitated surgery, sidelining him for the latter part of the season. Although Nkota began training again before the new campaign, Al-Ettifaq opted for a loan spell to Orlando Pirates to prioritize his match fitness and long-term development, offering him crucial consistent game time.

Nkota's return to the Sea Robbers means he faces formidable competition for a spot on the right wing, notably from Ghampani Lungu and Bafana Bafana international Tshepang Moremi. These players are considered key figures for coach Ouaddou, known not only for their goal and assist contributions but also for their relentless work rate off the ball.

Ghampani Lungu, the Zambian attacker who joined from Siwelele FC in June 2026, has made an instant and significant impact. Despite missing several matches due to injury, Lungu has accumulated four goals and one assist in just seven appearances. His critical contributions include an extra-time winner against Durban City in the MTN8 semifinals. Beyond his scoring ability, Lungu has demonstrated his playmaking prowess with 13 key passes and an average of 146 touches, complemented by defensive efforts like tackles and an interception in his limited appearances.

Similarly, Tshepang Moremi has quickly established himself as a regular starter for Orlando Pirates. The former AmaZulu winger played 26 games in his debut season, registering five goals and four assists. Despite another injury setback in September, Moremi has started the current season strongly, bagging three goals in seven games. His defensive contribution is also notable, with 22 tackles and eight interceptions this season. These statistics set a high benchmark for Nkota.

To become a regular starter, Mohau Nkota will need to match or surpass the performance levels and intense off-ball work rate displayed by his competitors. His journey back to peak form and a starting role will be closely watched by fans. Meanwhile, Orlando Pirates are gearing up for the MTN8 final against Mamelodi Sundowns, scheduled for Saturday, October 10th, at Moses Mabhida Stadium, with kick-off at 18:00.