Orlando Pirates have a congested fixture list and a potential shift in their priorities in 2024-2025. There’s also a new kid on the block.
Mokoena fast-tracked into action for Orlando Pirates
According to SoccerLaduma, Neo Mokoena might be in line for a taste of the Orlando Pirates first-team ahead of schedule. Pirates have dealt with a congested fixture list, compounded by a string of long-term injuries. 21-year-old winger Mokoena has been training with the senior side with Mbekezeli Mbokazi. Teenager Mbokazi has been a massive hit, recently becoming a regular in the heart of defence for Jose Riveiro’s men. Could Mokoena follow suit?
What’s next for Pirates?
Jose Riveiro’s Sea Robbers could only manage a 0-0 stalemate against FC Stellenbosch on Tuesday evening. The result leaves Jose Riveiro’s men 18 points adrift of runaway leaders Sundowns after 18 matches. Pirates do have four games in hand, however. Sundowns only need 19 points from their remaining eight matches to mathematically guarantee the title. If they beat Pirates on Sunday, that number will drop to 13. Pirates and Sundowns do battle on Sunday 16 March at 15:30.
Pirates want more firepower
Orlando Pirates are hoping to keep several current strikers. However, they’re not ruling out a swoop into the transfer market for more attackers.
“As we speak now, his contract will run until June 2027. The club has already exercised the two years on his contract. It’s not a direct extension or a new contract. For now, they have taken up the option they had on the player, and that’s within their rights to do so. His previous contract was coming to an end in June this year,” a SoccerLaduma source revealed.
Will Mokoena make an impact on the first XI this season?
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