Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has emphasised the need for leaders across the spine of his team as the defending Betway Premiership champions maintain an interest in Cape Town City forward Emile Witbooi.
The Buccaneers have recorded 11 clean sheets in 15 competitive matches this term, with goalkeeper Sipho Chaine identified as a key figure in setting the standard for the side.
Chaine made nine shutouts in 14 CAF Champions League appearances during the 2024-25 campaign. He was also central to Pirates’ successful Betway Premiership title defence last season, keeping 21 clean sheets in 30 matches.
The 29-year-old played every minute of that title-winning campaign, underlining his importance to the team and helping explain the high regard in which he is held by Ouaddou and his team-mates.
His form has continued into the current season. Chaine has kept seven clean sheets in eight league appearances, strengthening his position as one of the main leaders within the squad.
Ouaddou’s emphasis on leadership throughout the team’s spine places particular importance on the goalkeeper’s role, both in organising the defence and establishing standards for the rest of the side.
Witbooi remains on Pirates’ radar
Pirates continue to retain an interest in Cape Town City teenager Emile Witbooi.
Cape Town City chairman John Comitis previously confirmed that the Johannesburg-based club had submitted an offer for the young player. No further details of the proposal are included, but Witbooi remains linked with a possible move to the Buccaneers.
Champions League and Soweto Derby next
Chaine and his Pirates team-mates will next turn their attention to the second leg of their CAF Champions League qualifier against African Stars on Friday, 23 October.
They will then face Kaizer Chiefs in the Soweto Derby on Saturday, 31 October.
The two fixtures will provide Pirates with a major test in continental and domestic competition, while the club continues its campaign with the prospect of competing for a treble this season.
