Siphelele Luthuli Reflects on Orlando Pirates Trial and Surprise Bafana Bafana CHAN Call-Up

Former Chippa United midfielder Siphelele Luthuli has opened up about one of the most emotional periods in his football career — a rollercoaster journey that saw him go from training with Orlando Pirates to earning a shock call-up to the Bafana Bafana CHAN squad, all while being clubless.

The 30-year-old journeyman, who has featured for clubs such as Highlands Park, Bloemfontein Celtic, Royal AM, and most recently Chippa United, found himself without a contract heading into the 2024/25 season. But his passion for the game never wavered.

Trial With the Buccaneers

In December 2024, Luthuli began training with Orlando Pirates, hoping to impress coach Jose Riveiro and secure a lifeline back into the top flight. While the Buccaneers ultimately chose not to offer him a deal, Luthuli speaks fondly of the experience and the support he received from familiar faces at the club.

“Sipho Chaine and Thabiso Lebitso were great with me,” Luthuli told the Siya crew. “They gave me advice on how to impress the coach and what’s expected at Pirates. They also reminded me of how big the club is, which motivated me even more.”

Chaine and Lebitso, former teammates from previous clubs, played a crucial role in helping Luthuli settle in at the Soweto giants during what was a challenging yet hopeful time in his career.

A Door Closes, Another Opens

Though his stint with Pirates quietly ended in February 2025 without a contract, Luthuli’s fortunes took an unexpected and uplifting turn not long after. He was at home, watching television, when his phone rang with life-changing news.

“When I got the call from the team manager telling me to report to SAFA House, I honestly thought I was dreaming,” he recalled. “It took a while to sink in. I’ve been through a lot, so hearing that kind of news felt unreal.”

Despite not being signed to any club, Luthuli was called up to the South African squad for the African Nations Championship (CHAN) — a moment of redemption and validation after months of uncertainty.

Rising to the CHAN Challenge

Luthuli joined the Bafana Bafana camp in Bloemfontein, still processing the whirlwind events that had brought him there. His commitment and quality quickly stood out to the technical team, led by coach Molefi Ntseki.

“Being part of the CHAN team meant a lot to me,” said Luthuli. “Even when I was training with the team, I kept wondering how it all happened. But I was grateful. Coach Molefi Ntseki told me he was impressed – especially since I hadn’t played competitively in a while.”

And then came the highlight of his national team journey: scoring a goal in CHAN.

“Getting my name on the scoresheet felt amazing. The support I got afterwards – from fans and from my mother – made it even more special. She was proud, and that meant everything to me,” Luthuli beamed.

A Story of Perseverance and Hope

Luthuli’s story is one of resilience in the face of uncertainty. From walking away empty-handed from a Pirates trial to scoring for his country despite not being affiliated with any club, his journey is a testament to staying ready and believing in your ability even when the odds seem stacked against you.

As the 2025/26 season approaches, the midfielder will be hoping that his performances on the CHAN stage open new doors and revive his club career. And if his recent past is anything to go by, Siphelele Luthuli won’t stop fighting for his place in South African football.

For now, his journey serves as a powerful reminder: sometimes, the game gives back when you least expect it.