Tshepang Moremi hits 50-game milestone as Abdeslam Ouaddou’s trusted Orlando Pirates core takes shape

Tshepang Moremi has become the fourth Orlando Pirates player to make 50 appearances under head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, with his recent scoring form strengthening his importance to the South African giants.

The winger has joined Oswin Appollis, Sipho Chaine and Lebone Seema in reaching the milestone under the French-born Moroccan tactician, highlighting the continuity within Ouaddou’s squad.

Moremi’s achievement comes at a time when the forward is making a significant contribution in the final third, emerging as one of Pirates’ most influential attacking players.

He has scored four goals in six league appearances this season, underlining his growing importance to the Buccaneers as they pursue success across multiple competitions.

Moremi’s numbers strengthen his case

The 50-appearance milestone reflects the trust Ouaddou has placed in Moremi since taking charge of the Soweto-based club.

The winger has rewarded that confidence with decisive contributions in recent matches, scoring in two of Pirates’ last three outings.

One of those goals proved particularly important in continental competition, as he scored the only goal in their away victory over African Stars during the CAF Champions League qualifiers.

His ability to deliver in crucial moments has strengthened his position in the squad, with his recent performances providing another reason for Ouaddou to maintain continuity in his attacking selection.

Moremi is not alone in benefiting from the coach’s confidence. Appollis, Chaine and Seema have also reached 50 appearances under Ouaddou, demonstrating the consistency with which the coach has relied on a core group of players.

Ouaddou has previously emphasised the importance of having leaders positioned throughout the spine of his team, suggesting that experience and responsibility remain central to his approach.

The quartet’s appearance records provide a statistical indication of that philosophy, although Moremi’s current scoring output gives him an additional dimension in the competition for influence within the squad.

Pirates carry winning momentum into Nedbank Cup

The Buccaneers will look to extend their impressive run when they face Milford FC in the Nedbank Cup on Tuesday, October 27, at 19:00.

Pirates enter the fixture on the back of three consecutive victories across all competitions, having kept clean sheets in each of those matches.

Their defensive resilience, combined with Moremi’s attacking contributions, offers encouragement as they prepare for another domestic assignment.

The meeting with Milford also presents an opportunity for Ouaddou to maintain his team’s momentum while continuing to rely on the players who have established themselves in his plans.

For Moremi, another strong performance would further underline his value as Pirates seek to sustain their recent form.

Mbokazi’s European prospects come into focus

Away from the immediate concerns at Orlando Pirates, former defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s future could become another talking point as his career develops in Major League Soccer with Chicago Fire.

At 21, the South African defender has attracted attention over his potential to progress beyond the American league, with England and Italy emerging as possible destinations should suitable offers materialise.

A transfer fee of €20 million, approximately R369 million, would represent a substantial investment for a European club, but the defender’s age and potential could make him an attractive prospect.

Any move would depend on the level of interest, the terms available and Chicago Fire’s willingness to consider offers.