Orlando Pirates Secure Strong Presence in Bafana Bafana Preliminary Squad
Orlando Pirates’ outstanding 2025/26 season has been rewarded with eight players named in Pitso Mosimane’s first preliminary Bafana Bafana squad since his return as head coach. The Buccaneers’ strong representation reflects their domestic treble-winning campaign and their significant contribution to South Africa’s 2026 FIFA World Cup squad.
The Pirates contingent includes goalkeeper Sipho Chaine, defenders Kamogelo Sebelebele, Lebone Seema, and Nkosinathi Sibisi. In midfield, Cemran Dansin adds creativity and balance, while the attacking trio of Yanela Mbuthuma, Oswin Appollis, and Tshepang Moremi provide pace and firepower.
This selection comes on the back of a glittering campaign for Pirates. They clinched the 2025/26 Betway Premiership title, ending Sundowns’ long streak of dominance. In addition, they lifted both the MTN8 and the Carling Knockout, completing a domestic treble that showcased their consistency and winning mentality.
Their success was further recognized at the PSL Awards, where Pirates players dominated the accolades for the 2025/26 season. From goalkeeper honors to attacking brilliance, the Buccaneers’ stars were celebrated as the best across multiple categories, underlining their individual and collective excellence.
Pirates also had the largest representation in South Africa’s squad at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a testament to their ability to produce players capable of performing on the biggest stage. That experience now feeds directly into Mosimane’s plans as he prepares for the AFCON qualifiers.
Mosimane, who replaced Hugo Broos earlier this month, has retained much of the World Cup group while adding fresh names to signal his tactical vision. His reliance on Pirates players reflects trust in their proven ability to deliver under pressure, both domestically and internationally.
Bafana Bafana’s AFCON qualifying campaign begins with a home clash against Guinea on 26 September 2026, followed by an away fixture against Eritrea on 30 September 2026. These matches will be Mosimane’s first real test, and the Pirates contingent will be expected to carry their club form into the national setup.
The South Africans will then face Egypt in a high-profile international friendly on 4 October 2026, offering Mosimane a chance to experiment tactically and assess his squad against one of Africa’s most decorated sides. With Pirates’ players forming a significant part of the squad, their influence could be decisive in shaping South Africa’s journey toward AFCON 2027.
