Karim Kimvuidi’s Surprise Appearance for Ashdod Sparks Transfer Questions
Congolese midfielder Karim Kimvuidi has caused confusion among Orlando Pirates supporters after unexpectedly starting for Israeli side Ashdod in their 2-0 Israeli Cup defeat to Hapoel Tel Aviv on Sunday.
The 26-year-old, listed in Pirates’ official 34-man squad for the 2025/26 season, featured in Ashdod’s midfield despite no formal announcement from either club regarding a transfer or loan deal.
According to Siya sources, Kimvuidi has not yet signed a contract with Ashdod. However, his surprise debut has now opened the door for a possible move. The player arrived in Israel just four days before the fixture and was registered as a foreign player for the match.
Ashdod head coach Haim Silves praised Kimvuidi’s performance, noting his technical qualities and industry in midfield. “He impressed me. We will analyze things in depth, we don’t make decisions a minute after the game. But he is ‘from the industry’ that’s for sure,” Silves said after the match.
It is understood that Kimvuidi remains under contract with Orlando Pirates. Israeli football regulations allow clubs to field foreign players in test matches outside the official league, which explains his participation without a completed transfer.
Ashdod are now expected to assess their options in the coming days, with the midfielder’s showing potentially accelerating negotiations for a permanent or loan deal before the transfer window closes.
