Sibisi: Pirates Must Maintain Title-Winning…

Nkosinathi Sibisi during the Orlando Pirates Media Open Day at Rand Stadium on 28 July 2026. Photo: Backpage Pix

Orlando Pirates captain Nkosinathi Sibisi believes the Buccaneers are ready for the start of the new campaign, while stressing the importance of giving the club’s new signings and younger players time to settle under the technical team.

The Buccaneers will begin the defence of their Betway Premiership title when they host newly promoted Milford FC at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday, with expectations high following last season’s success.   

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Speaking during the club’s media open day at Rand Stadium on Tuesday, Sibisi acknowledged that pre-season had been shorter than usual but believes the squad has done enough to prepare.

“I think we, as players, are prepared. Pre-season has been quite short this time around, but I believe we’ve covered everything that needed to be covered.

“The preparation matches weren’t really about the results. They were about finding the right combinations, seeing what works and what doesn’t, and continuing to improve while helping the new players settle into the squad.”  

Sibisi said the integration process has been encouraging but cautioned that not every player can be expected to make an instant impact.

“As I’ve said before, I think that process is going very well. The coach has also made it clear that we shouldn’t rush some of the players because it won’t always be the case that you have a Rele (Relebohile Mofokeng), a (Mbekezeli) Mbokazi, or a Mohau (Nkota) who immediately hit the ground running. Some players simply need time to adapt.”

The Pirates skipper also highlighted the pressure that comes with representing the Soweto giants, saying last season’s achievements have only raised expectations.

“Unfortunately, it’s a bit of a two-way street because we know our supporters always expect us to deliver. I think the standard has been set by the three trophies we’ve won, including the league title. Anything less than that would be seen as a failure for us.

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“So, we have to maintain those standards. As players, we have to help the coach implement what he wants to do while also helping the younger players integrate into the group.”

With Pirates entering a new chapter under head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, Sibisi’s comments underline the balance the club hopes to strike between maintaining its winning culture and allowing new faces the time they need to contribute as the season unfolds. 

Photo: Phakamisa Lensman/BackpagePix 

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