Oswin Appollis Praises Orlando Pirates Squad Depth Ahead of Carling Knockout Final

Oswin Appollis has offered firm praise for the quality within the Orlando Pirates squad as the team prepares for the Carling Knockout final. The winger has seen limited starts this season, yet his impact has remained strong in a squad that continues to outperform rivals in the Betway Premiership.

Pirates sit at the top of the table with 28 points from 12 matches. They have already lifted the MTN8 and are pushing for a second trophy when they face Marumo Gallants on Saturday at New Peter Mokaba Stadium. A sharp, consistent attack has driven their success. Tshepang Moremi leads the scoring with eight goals, while Yanela Mbuthuma and Appollis follow with five each.

Appollis joined the club for R12 million at the start of the season. He has produced five goals in 12 league appearances, despite starting only eight matches and completing the full 90 minutes once. His output has placed him among the top contributors in the squad.

Speaking ahead of the final, Appollis highlighted the competition for places within the team. He said the depth and quality among the players make it impossible for anyone to feel guaranteed a starting role.

“With the quality that we have in our team, it does not matter if you are coming from the bench or starting. We are all good enough to start, and there are only 11 players who can start,” he said.

He added that the coaching staff have built a mindset that values impact over status. Many of the club’s goals this season have come from substitutes, proving the effectiveness of that approach.

“You cannot always start the games. It is the coach’s decision on the day who must start and who must not. If the coach wants me to start from the bench, I always give my 100 percent because I like winning,” he said.

Appollis is one of nine Pirates players selected for the Bafana Bafana squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations. His immediate focus remains on helping the team secure another trophy this weekend. The Buccaneers aim to close the year with momentum, using their depth as a competitive advantage in both domestic and international competitions.