Orlando Pirates have announced the shock departure of Olisa Ndah after 81 appearances since joining from Akwa United in the Nigerian Professional Football League in 2021.

The decision has left the club with the following five central defensive options…

A MIX OF EXPERIENCE AND YOUTH

Orlando Pirates are now left with a blend of seasoned heads and hungry young talent.

Nkosinathi Sibisi (30)
The most experienced option in the group, with 113 games that include three goals and two assists.

Tapelo Xoki (31)
Still recovering from a motor collision, the Khayelitsha-born defender has 84 games for Orlando Pirates, which include eight goals (mostly penalty kicks).

Thabiso Sesane (25)
Sesane, already with 47 appearances for the Sea Robbers, is bouncing back from a lengthy injury layoff.

Lebone Seema (22)
One of the exciting young prospects who often plays like the best defender in the Betway Premiership. Seema has played 19 of the 25 matches Orlando Pirates have played this term.

Mpho Chabatsane (23)
Replacing Mbekezeli Mbokazi at left centre-back, Chabatsane is yet to make his debut after joining from Marumo Gallants this month.

ORLANDO PIRATES TARGET THE BETWAY PREMIERSHIP TITLE

Despite Kaizer Chiefs leapfrogging the Buccaneers in second place, the Sea Robbers remain firmly in the Betway Premiership title race, sitting just three points behind league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns with two games in hand.

The team maintains the best defensive record in the league, having conceded only five goals in 13 matches played.

Coach Abeslam Ouaddou’s side are also set to compete in the Nedbank Cup after lifting the MTN8 and Carling Knockout titles this season.

Coming up next is the visit of Magesi FC on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at the newly renamed Orlando Amstel Arena.

WHAT ELSE DO YOU EXPECT ORLANDO PIRATES TO WIN THIS SEASON?

Please share your thoughts in the comments section block below.