Lekgwathi backs Orlando Pirates’ title defence despite Mofokeng exit

Former Orlando Pirates captain Lucky Lekgwathi is convinced the club can retain their Betway Premiership crown this season, even after losing PSL Footballer of the Season Relebohile Mofokeng to Royale Union Saint-Gilloise.

Mofokeng has joined the Belgian Pro League side on the back of a standout campaign in which the Buccaneers completed a domestic treble, including the league title. His departure has raised questions about whether Pirates can maintain that level, but Lekgwathi insists the champions remain well equipped.

Speaking at the league’s official season launch on Wednesday, the ex-defender argued that continuity in the squad and technical team outweighs the loss of their 21-year-old attacking star.

“Speaking from experience, the league is not going to be easy because all the teams will want to beat Orlando Pirates, but I have strong belief and faith in Pirates because, if you look at Pirates, they only lost one player, Relebohile (Mofokeng). Everyone else is still there, from the coach to everyone, which is good for the team as they kept almost all the players. It’s not going to be easy, but as I said before, I believe and trust in that they will defend their title,” Lekgwathi said.

‘Pirates is not a one-man team’

Lekgwathi stressed that the strength of the squad lies in its depth and internal competition, rather than in any individual.

“Let me tell you, there is a healthy competition at Orlando Pirates. Pirates is not a one-man team, as you mentioned Rele’s departure. However, the team went on to sign new players because of the number of competitions they will be involved in. Obviously, other players need a break, and as I said before, there is a healthy competition,” he explained.

The former captain highlighted the club’s recruitment strategy and age profile as key factors that should help them cope with the demands of the new campaign across multiple fronts.

“Whenever other players are tired, you must bring fresh legs and, one thing about them, most of them are young, fresh blood. Even some of the coaches said it, that most of the teams are signing young blood, which is good for South African soccer,” he added.

Lekgwathi also pointed to the impact of the club’s development structures, noting how many current first-team members have come through their own ranks.

“You look at Orlando Pirates, most of the players got promoted from their DDC, and all of them are doing very well. I think it’s a good motivation for other teams to give youngsters the opportunity to showcase their talent,” he concluded.

Title defence begins against Milford FC

Orlando Pirates will open their Betway Premiership title defence at home to newly promoted Milford FC on Saturday. The match at Orlando Amstel Arena is scheduled to kick off at 15:00.

The fixture marks the start of a campaign in which Pirates will again juggle domestic and cup commitments, now without their award-winning playmaker but with what Lekgwathi believes is a settled and competitive squad capable of sustaining last season’s success.