Orlando Pirates Set for Defensive Refresh as Mbekezeli Mbokazi Nears MLS Move

Orlando Pirates are preparing for a refreshed defensive lineup ahead of their year-end fixtures, with Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s anticipated transfer dominating headlines. The Soweto giants face Chippa United under floodlights at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday at 19:30 in their Betway Premiership clash, and changes at the back are expected to be a key talking point.

Mbokazi is reportedly set for a move to MLS side Chicago Fire in the New Year. His departure will mark the end of a period in which he became a mainstay in the Pirates defence. Meanwhile, Olisa Ndah is inching closer to making his first appearance of the season. The Nigerian centre-back last featured against Polokwane City on September 24, 2024, and has missed 64 matches due to injury. Ndah’s return is highly anticipated, though it will come after Mbokazi’s exit, meaning the two may not share official match time together at Orlando Stadium.

Makhehlene Makhaula is also nearing a return. The midfielder, who last played in May and earned the PSL’s Midfielder of the Season accolade, has recovered from injury and could feature alongside a refreshed defensive unit.

In Mbokazi’s absence, Lebone Seema has been a stabilising force at the back. Seema has started ahead of Nkosinathi Sibisi, with Thabiso Sesane and Tapelo Xoki still sidelined due to injury. His performances have provided confidence to the coaching staff as the team navigates a congested fixture list toward the end of the year.

Ndah’s prolonged absence has also affected his international career, ruling him out of the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations finals in December. His return to club football will be closely monitored, as he looks to regain full match fitness and contribute to Pirates’ title push in the Betway Premiership.

With Mbokazi preparing for a new chapter abroad and Ndah set to rejoin the squad, Orlando Pirates’ defence is poised for a reshaped lineup. The team will look to maintain stability while integrating returning players ahead of a critical end-of-season period.