Orlando Pirates have started giving up hope in their pursuit of Fawaaz Basadien. In a former Kaizer Chiefs talent, they’ve found an alternative.
Pirates see Mdaka as Plan B left-back signing
According toSoccer-Laduma, Orlando Pirates see Omega Mdaka as an inexpensive, realistic alternative to the number-one priority target Fawaaz Basadien. 21-year-old Mdaka joined Stellenbosch in July 2024. He’s quickly become an important figure for the Winelands club, making six league appearances this term and 14 across all competitions.
“You see that young defender? The left-back who came from Chiefs? Yes, Mdaka, Orlando Pirates are monitoring him. They are finding it difficult to get Fawaaz (Basadien) so they think Omega (Mdaka) would be a good option. He is still young and he has great potential. They are monitoring him first before they could make any move,” said a source.
“This could work properly for the club (Pirates) because at the moment their main focus in the defence is left back. They only have Innocent Maela who is not playing that much and then Paseka Mako who just returned from injury and that’s why Deon Hotto has mainly been playing in that position. So, now they are looking for another left-back and Mdaka has emerged as one of the top targets according to their scouts and recruiters. So, let’s wait and see,”
Mofokeng almost joined Sundowns
Former Pirates youth coach Mandla Qhogi has revealed that Relebohile Mofokeng was close to joining other PSL sides before becoming a Buccaneer. Qhogi claims perennial champions Sundowns made a concerted effort to sign the winger, making a tempting offer to the School of Excellence. Despite that, Mofokeng had already committed to Orlando Pirates.
Pirates hope to bounce back against Baroka
Next up for Riveiro’s side is a Nedbank Cup R16 clash at home against Baroka on Saturday 15 Feb at 15:00. The Sea Robbers return to Betway Premiership action on Wednesday 19 February, away to Golden Arrows. The kickoff in that clash is at 19:30. Thabiso Sesane will play no part having cruelly been ruled out of the season with a tendon rupture.
Full list of Kaizer Chiefs absentees for Nedbank Cup Round of 16
- Yusuf Maart (suspended)
- Sibongiseni Mthethwa
- Wandile Duba
- Ashley Du Preez
- Edmilson Dove
- Dillan Solomons
Predicted Chiefs starting XI vs Chippa
Bvuma; Frosler, Miguel, Dortley, Ditlhokwe; Cele, Blom; Lilepo, Shabalala, Sirino; Morris.
Is Mdaka a good option for Pirates?
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