Mokobodi relishing chance to make his mark at Orlando Pirates

Orlando Pirates midfielder Thapelo Mokobodi says he always expected to play his own style of football at the club after producing a Man of the Match display in their 2-0 victory over Marumo Gallants.

The Sea Robbers secured the win at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium on Sunday, with Kabelo Kgositsile and Nkosinathi Sibisi scoring the goals. Mokobodi controlled the midfield as Pirates moved to within one point of leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.

The 23-year-old joined Orlando Pirates from Stellenbosch FC in July 2026 in a move that came as something of a surprise. However, injuries to Thalente Mbatha and Sihle Nduli have created an opportunity for the midfielder, who has taken full advantage of his increased involvement.

“Coming here, I knew I would play my style of football,” Mokobodi told SuperSport TV after the match.

“I know how comfortable I am on the ball, and my teammates made it easy. The coach helped me as well because the type of football he likes is the type of football I’m good at.”

The result lifted Orlando Pirates to 19 points and second place in the Betway Premiership. The Soweto club have played one game fewer than Mamelodi Sundowns, who are one point ahead of them.

Marumo Gallants, meanwhile, remain without a win after seven matches and are bottom of the Betway Premiership table.

Mokobodi said the preparation provided by the coaching staff had also helped him settle into the team and perform in a challenging away match.

“So it was not difficult for me to fit into the team,” he added.

“The coach warned us that it would be a difficult game, and he told us that it would never be easy. So we came here very prepared for the game, and we knew where to hurt them.”

Orlando Pirates will next face Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 final on Saturday, 10 October 2026.