Orlando Pirates Raids Rival Clubs, Signs Six New Superstars

Orlando Pirates are making significant waves in the transfer market, embarking on an aggressive recruitment drive to strengthen their squad for upcoming challenges, notably the 2026/27 campaign.

This proactive approach has seen the Buccaneers secure six confirmed new signings, demonstrating a clear strategy of investing in promising South African talent while enhancing squad depth and competition across all positions.

One of the marquee arrivals is Neo Rapoo, a 20-year-old left-back who joins from Siwelele FC. He becomes the second star player from Siwelele FC to move to Soweto, following Bohlale Ngwato.

According to FARPost journalist, Mthokozisi Dube, Orlando Pirates successfully reached an agreement with Siwelele FC on a transfer fee, with Rapoo also agreeing to personal terms.

This signing is particularly strategic, given veteran left-wing back Deon Hotto's nearing career end and Nkosikhona Ndaba's struggle to dominate the left flank. Rapoo's arrival presents a massive opportunity for him to become the club's number one left-back.

Rapoo’s impressive performances and underlying statistics have established him as arguably the most dangerous attacking left-back in South African football.

His career began in Tsitsing, near Rustenburg, where he was scouted at 11 before joining the SuperSport United academy. He broke into the senior team under Gavin Hunt at just 17, setting the stage for a highly promising career.

A move to Siwelele FC before the 2025/26 campaign saw him elevate his game further, cementing his place as a first-choice starter with 26 Betway Premiership appearances.

His attacking prowess was evident as he topped the league’s crossing charts with 150 deliveries into the penalty area, surpassing rivals like AmaZulu’s Riaan Hanamub (145) and Mamelodi Sundowns' Aubrey Modiba (127).

He also registered 14 shots on target, highlighting his influence in the final third. Defensively, Rapoo was equally influential, amassing 140 combined tackles, interceptions, and clearances, outperforming both Hanamub and Modiba in total defensive actions.

Despite Siwelele spending more time without possession, these figures underscore his tireless work ethic and ability to perform under pressure.

He also won 55% of his aerial duels and 56.1% of his ground duels, showcasing a competitive edge beyond his years, though his combative style did result in seven yellow cards during the campaign.

Another pivotal signing is Siyanda Ndlovu, a 22-year-old attacking midfielder from Golden Arrows. The deal for Ndlovu, known as “Skhwishi,” was also confirmed following an agreement on a transfer fee between the Buccaneers and Golden Arrows, and Ndlovu’s acceptance of personal terms.

Ndlovu arrives after a standout season in Durban, where he contributed four goals and eight assists across 31 appearances in all competitions. His exceptional form attracted interest from top clubs like Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns, but Orlando Pirates ultimately secured his signature.

The acquisition of Ndlovu is seen as a key component of Orlando Pirates’ long-term planning, especially amid growing expectations of Relebohile Mofokeng potentially moving overseas. Regardless of Mofokeng’s immediate future, Ndlovu adds valuable creativity and depth to an already talented attacking department.

Naturally deployed on the wing, he is versatile enough to operate as a central attacking midfielder, providing coaches with significant tactical flexibility.

Ndlovu’s journey includes progressing through Happy Crown FC, Newcastle All Stars, and the Golden Arrows DStv Diski Challenge team before breaking into their senior side during the 2023/24 season. His pace, dribbling ability, and vision in the final third have made him one of Arrows’ most creative outlets, and expectations are high as he transitions to the Soweto giants, who aim for domestic honors and continental impact.

Beyond Rapoo and Ndlovu, Orlando Pirates have also announced other significant recruits. These include central defender Sbangani Zulu from Richards Bay FC, midfielder Mthetheleli Mthiyane from Stellenbosch FC, winger Bohlale Ngwato from Siwelele FC, and striker Ghampani Lungu, also from Siwelele FC.

These additions provide the coach, Abdeslam Ouaddou, with crucial depth and competition.

Zulu is expected to bring physicality to the defense, Mthiyane offers energy and composure in midfield, Ngwato adds pace and left-footed quality on the wings, and Lungu provides another potent option up front alongside Yanela Mbuthuma and Evidence Makgopa.

This comprehensive six-man intake underscores the club’s determination to build a strong, competitive squad for a demanding season, ensuring improvements to both the starting XI and overall squad depth.