Orlando Pirates Announce Triple Signings and Defensive Changes

Orlando Pirates have moved early and decisively ahead of the 2026/27 season, sealing three new signings and confirming a trio of departures in a clear statement of intent from the Soweto giants.

The Buccaneers have brought in Neo Rapoo, Aphiwe Baliti and Matome Mmolai, targeting youth, energy and technical polish as they reshape the squad for the next campaign.

Rapoo: Modern full-back for a modern Pirates

At just 20, Neo Rapoo arrives from Siwelele FC with the profile of a full-back built for the modern game.

A product of SuperSport United’s development system and already capped at South Africa youth level, Rapoo is comfortable on both sides of the ball. He defends with aggression, but just as importantly, he drives into advanced areas with confidence, offering width, tempo and clean delivery from the left.

Pirates have been searching for full-backs who can stretch the pitch and still hold their own defensively. Rapoo fits that brief. He brings energy, technical quality and the kind of upside that suggests this is a signing made with both the present and the future in mind.

Baliti in, then straight back out on loan

Joining him on the books is another Siwelele FC defender, 24-year-old Aphiwe Baliti.

Primarily a left-back, Baliti can operate on either flank, giving coaches tactical flexibility across the back line. He arrives with experience in the domestic top flight, a player who knows the intensity and demands of the league and can slot into different roles when needed.

Pirates, though, are playing the long game. Baliti will immediately return to Siwelele on a season-long loan for the 2026/27 campaign. The logic is clear: regular minutes, consistent starts, and the chance to sharpen his game further away from the glare and competition of a stacked Pirates squad.

The Buccaneers keep his rights, Siwelele keep his services for another year, and the player keeps his development on an upward curve.

Mmolai bolsters a busy engine room

The final piece of the incoming trio is central midfielder Matome Mmolai, signed from Leicesterford City.

At 23, Mmolai brings legs and composure in equal measure. He is comfortable on the ball, able to link play between defence and attack, and capable of influencing different phases of the game. Whether recycling possession, breaking lines or supporting higher up the pitch, he adds another layer to Pirates’ midfield options.

With the new season looming, his arrival strengthens competition in the engine room and gives the technical team another profile to work with in a key area of the pitch.

Khoto and Ndlozi depart, Mashiloane heads out on loan

While new faces arrive, there is movement in the opposite direction.

Orlando Pirates have confirmed that Gomolemo Khoto and Siyabonga Ndlozi have completed permanent transfers to Sekhukhune United. Both leave in search of opportunity and continuity, and Babina Noko gain two players with grounding at one of the country’s biggest clubs.

Right-back Tshepho Mashiloane will also return to Sekhukhune United on a season-long loan, rejoining Babina Noko to chase regular game time and further his development in familiar surroundings.

Three signings, three exits, one clear message: Pirates are not standing still. With Rapoo, Baliti and Mmolai on board and pathways opened up for others, the question now is simple — how quickly will this reshaped squad translate promise into trophies?