Orlando Pirates’ new 2026/27 signings, their former clubs, pre-season performances, and what they bring this season.
Orlando Pirates have approached the 2026/27 transfer window with a clear objective: refresh the squad, add depth in key areas and provide new head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou with players capable of competing on multiple fronts. Following a league-winning campaign, the Buccaneers have resisted the temptation to make wholesale changes, instead opting for calculated additions that blend youth, experience and international quality.
Their pre-season tour in Spain offered supporters the first glimpse of the club’s new recruits in black and white. While pre-season results should always be viewed with caution, Pirates displayed encouraging signs against quality European opposition, including an impressive victory over Spanish side Cádiz before ending the tour with a narrow defeat to Saudi Pro League newcomers NEOM. The performances suggested a team gradually adapting to Ouaddou’s philosophy of structured defending, quick transitions and greater tactical flexibility.
Sebastian Pedersen – The Scandinavian Goalscorer
The headline signing of the window is undoubtedly Norwegian striker Sebastian Pedersen, who joins from Sogndal Fotball.
Pedersen arrives with an impressive scoring record in Norway, where he established himself as one of the country’s most reliable forwards outside the top flight. During his time at Sogndal, he scored more than 50 goals in all competitions and was enjoying another productive campaign before Orlando Pirates secured his signature.
Unlike traditional target men, Pedersen thrives through intelligent movement inside the penalty area. His greatest strength lies in anticipating crosses, finding space between defenders and finishing with minimal touches. Pirates have lacked a consistent penalty-box striker in recent seasons, and the Norwegian could provide the clinical edge that was occasionally missing last campaign.
Although he joined after much of the Spain tour had concluded, expectations surrounding his arrival are understandably high.
Mthetheleli Mthiyane – Midfield Intelligence
Former Stellenbosch FC midfielder Mthetheleli Mthiyane is regarded as one of the most technically gifted South African midfielders of his generation.
His performances at Stellenbosch showcased composure in possession, intelligent positioning and an ability to dictate the tempo of matches. Rather than relying on physicality, Mthiyane excels through quick decision-making and accurate distribution.
He featured during Pirates’ pre-season preparations in Spain and looked comfortable in possession, showing glimpses of the qualities that convinced the club to bring him to Soweto.
Sbangani Zulu – Defensive Versatility
Signed from Richards Bay FC, Sbangani Zulu arrives with a reputation for consistency and versatility.
Comfortable as both a centre-back and defensive midfielder, Zulu provides valuable tactical flexibility. His strong aerial ability, physical presence and willingness to play out from the back make him an ideal option in modern football.
During the Spanish training camp, Zulu quickly adapted to Pirates’ defensive structure, with coaches reportedly impressed by his discipline and work rate.
Ghampani Lungu – Experience in Attack
Pirates strengthened their attacking department with the signing of Ghampani Lungu from Siwelele FC.
The Zambian international arrives after consistently producing goals and assists in domestic competition. Lungu’s versatility allows him to operate as a central striker, second striker or wide forward, giving Ouaddou several tactical options.
His experience at both club and international level could prove invaluable during a demanding campaign that includes domestic and continental competitions.
Bohale Ngwato – Pace on the Wings
Another arrival from Siwelele FC, Bohale Ngwato brings pace, direct running and creativity.
The winger built his reputation by consistently troubling defenders in one-on-one situations while also contributing goals and assists. Pirates have often relied on quick transitions, making Ngwato’s explosive style a natural fit.
Although still adapting to the club’s tactical demands, he showed flashes of his attacking potential during the pre-season fixtures in Spain.
Neo Rapoo – Investing in Youth
One of the club’s most exciting acquisitions is left-back Neo Rapoo, who joins from Siwelele.
Rapoo is regarded as one of South African football’s brightest young defenders. Comfortable pushing forward while remaining defensively disciplined, he possesses the technical ability required of modern full-backs.
His inclusion reflects Pirates’ long-term planning, with the club identifying players capable of becoming regular starters for years to come.
Aphiwe Baliti – A Prospect for the Future
Pirates also secured the services of defender Aphiwe Baliti from Cape Town Spurs.
Although viewed primarily as a development signing, Baliti has already earned praise for his composure and defensive awareness. The club believes regular first-team football elsewhere will accelerate his development, leading to his immediate loan move after signing.
Matome Mmolai – Goalkeeping Competition
The arrival of goalkeeper Matome Mmolai from Kruger United strengthens Pirates’ depth between the posts.
Mmolai impressed throughout his time in the Motsepe Foundation Championship, where his reflexes, command of the penalty area and consistency attracted interest from several top-flight clubs.
Competition for places is expected to benefit Pirates’ goalkeeping department throughout the season.
A Promising Pre-Season
While results are secondary during pre-season, Pirates’ performances in Spain offered plenty of encouragement.
The Buccaneers competed confidently against strong opposition, recording notable victories while gradually implementing Ouaddou’s tactical ideas. Their organized defensive shape, improved ball retention and willingness to attack in transition were evident throughout the tour.
The only blemish came in a narrow defeat to NEOM in the final friendly, but even that performance demonstrated the team’s growing cohesion ahead of the new campaign.
Building for Sustained Success
Rather than pursuing high-profile names, Orlando Pirates have assembled a group of players who address specific tactical needs.
Pedersen offers goals inside the box. Mthiyane adds creativity and composure in midfield. Zulu strengthens the defensive spine. Ngwato and Lungu provide greater attacking variety, while Rapoo, Baliti and Mmolai represent investments in the club’s future.
The transfer strategy suggests Pirates are not merely preparing for one season but laying the foundation for sustained success under a new coaching regime.
Whether these signings ultimately deliver silverware will only become clear over the coming months. However, on paper, Orlando Pirates appear to have strengthened intelligently, adding quality without disrupting the core of a championship-winning squad. If the early signs from Spain are any indication, the Buccaneers could once again emerge as one of the strongest contenders for domestic honours while mounting a serious challenge on the continental stage.
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