Orlando Pirates have begun their title defence with a 2-0 victory over Milford, but the arrival of Norwegian striker Sebastian Pedersen and the departure of Relebohile Mofokeng have added fresh questions about the club’s strongest starting XI.
Tshepang Moremi and Oswin Appollis scored the goals as Pirates opened their campaign with a controlled win. The result offered an early indication of the team’s direction, although the club’s new additions and the changing status of several players mean there is still debate over who should feature regularly.
One possible line-up from the opening match was:
Chaine; Sebelebele, Seema, Sibisi, Hotto; Mbatha, Dansin; Appollis, Maswanganyi, Moremi; Mbuthuma.
The selection placed Appollis in an attacking role and included Mbuthuma as the central striker, with Moremi also making an impact by scoring. Appollis’ contribution was particularly significant, as he was one of the players on the scoresheet in the opening league fixture.
Pirates have also strengthened their forward options by signing 27-year-old Norwegian striker Sebastian Pedersen from Sogndal in his native Norway. His arrival is likely to create competition for the number-nine position and could have consequences for Evidence Makgopa.
Some supporters online have unfairly labelled Pedersen “The Temu Haaland”, but the striker’s signing nevertheless gives Pirates another option in attack as they attempt to defend their title.
A second suggested XI reflects the possible inclusion of Makgopa:
Chaine; Sebelebele, Seema, Sibisi, Hotto, Mbatha, Nduli; Appollis, Dansin, Moremi; Makgopa.
That team makes room for Makgopa at the head of the attack, while Nduli is included in midfield. The question now is whether Pedersen’s arrival will alter Makgopa’s position in the squad, or whether the two forwards will compete for selection as the season progresses.
Appollis, meanwhile, appears set to remain with Pirates despite reports of interest from FC Porto. There had been rumours of an approach from the Portuguese club, but there has been no indication that the South African attacker is leaving.
The club’s squad numbers for the 2026-27 season are also part of the discussion as Pirates settle their roster following the latest changes.
Mofokeng’s move has already produced a memorable moment for his new club, Royal Union Saint-Gilloise. The 21-year-old Bafana star scored the decisive penalty in a shootout victory over Club Brugge to win the Belgian Super Cup.
It was an impressive start to life in Belgium, with Mofokeng lifting a trophy after only one match for his new team.
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