Sipho Mbule Sends Message to Bafana Bafana Coach After Orlando Pirates’ MTN8 Triumph

Orlando Pirates lifted a record fourth MTN8 title on Saturday, beating Stellenbosch FC 3-0 in the final at Mbombela Stadium. Midfield standout Sipho Mbule played a key role in the victory and has sent a message to Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos following his performances.

Mbule was among six Pirates players who only resumed training with the team midweek due to national team duties. He had featured in Bafana Bafana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and played in a 1-1 draw against Nigeria just four days before the MTN8 final.

Speaking to SuperSport TV after the match, Mbule reflected on a demanding two-week period but expressed gratitude to Broos for recalling him to the national team for the first time since 2021. He was called up as a late substitute for teammate Patrick Maswanganyi, who withdrew due to injury.

“The past two weeks haven’t been easy, but it’s the work rate we’ve been doing in pre-season,” the 27-year-old said. “You could see it today in extra time; everyone was fit because of the work we’ve done in Spain and the work when we came back.”

Mbule also shared his thoughts on his national team experience. “I was quite happy with the way we played and the minutes I got from coach Hugo. It was a stepping stone for me to improve even more, and to come here at Pirates and show what I showed in the national team.”

His performances for both Bafana Bafana and Pirates underline his growing influence in midfield. With his fitness levels and form peaking, Mbule looks set to be a key player for Pirates as they aim for continued success in the 2025/26 season.