At the age of 35, Orlando Pirates’ midfield powerhouse, Makhehlene Makhaula, continues to defy expectations and prove that age is no barrier to excellence in football. Still performing at a high level, Makhaula has been instrumental in Pirates’ pursuit of multiple trophies this season, including the league title, a strong run in the CAF Champions League, and a spot in the Nedbank Cup final.
Since joining Orlando Pirates midway through the 2022/23 season, many initially viewed the move as a short-term solution, given Makhaula’s advanced age. However, the veteran has exceeded expectations, establishing himself as one of the most influential players in the squad. With 34 appearances this season alone, the midfield destroyer has become one of head coach Jose Riveiro’s most trusted lieutenants, continuing to play a pivotal role in Pirates’ ambitions.
Makhaula’s game has evolved remarkably over time. While once known primarily as a defensive midfielder, he has successfully transformed himself into a more versatile box-to-box player, capable of contributing both defensively and offensively. This tactical shift has allowed him to keep younger talents like Miguel Timm, Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo, and Goodman Mosele out of the starting XI, showcasing his enduring quality and adaptability.
A key figure in Pirates’ midfield, Makhaula’s consistency and leadership have not gone unnoticed by his teammates. Tapelo Xoki, who previously played alongside him at AmaZulu FC, drew a striking comparison between Makhaula and Andrea Pirlo, the legendary Italian midfielder known for reinventing himself later in his career. Xoki believes that Makhaula’s progression is similar to Pirlo’s transition from a defensive role to a more influential, creative force as he aged.
“I made reference to Andrea Pirlo – the older he got, the better he played, and that seems to be the case with ‘Cash’ (Makhaula),” Xoki remarked in an interview on Bucs Camp via Pirates TV. “I played with him over five seasons, and he is just getting better every season. It is an inspiration to all of us: age is not a limit. He is someone you cannot fault in terms of effort, he always gives more than one hundred percent.”
As the season progresses, Makhaula remains a central figure in Pirates’ plans, especially as they enter the business end of multiple competitions. The club is currently in the semi-finals of the Nedbank Cup and the quarter-finals of the CAF Champions League, where they will face MC Alger in the first leg of the last eight on Tuesday.
With his unwavering commitment and leadership on the field, Makhaula continues to prove that age is but a number, and his presence will undoubtedly be key as Orlando Pirates look to end the season on a high.
