Orbit College move for Mahlangu as Chibwe earns new deal after relegation setback

Orbit College FC have signed right-back Tshepiso ‘Razor’ Mahlangu and handed goalkeeper Cyril Chibwe a one-year contract extension as they reshape their squad following relegation from the Betway Premiership.

The North-West club, nicknamed Mswenko Boys, are rebuilding after dropping straight back down to the second tier in May, just a season after winning promotion to South Africa’s elite division.

Mahlangu becomes one of the first new arrivals of the close season after leaving University of Pretoria, where he was part of a significant clear-out. The 28-year-old defender had joined AmaTuks in January 2023 but was among a large group of players released as the club restructured.

University of Pretoria recently announced that 11 players were departing. Alongside Mahlangu, the list included former AmaZulu goalkeeper Veli Mothwa and ex-SuperSport United and Ajax Cape Town forward Prince Nxumalo.

The other outgoing players confirmed by AmaTuks were Riyaaz Ismail, Lesego Sebetlela, Camagu Mdevulana, Tokollo Makgolane, Kamohelo Pheeane, Luke Daniels, Kamohelo Hoala, Teboogo Mohlamonyane and Mcebisi Langa.

Orbit have moved quickly to capitalise on that exodus by securing Mahlangu, who will be expected to add experience and depth on the right side of defence as the club targets an immediate return to the top flight.

Chibwe stays on

At the same time, Orbit have opted for continuity in goal by retaining Zambian international Chibwe for another campaign.

The new deal means the 31-year-old will enter his second season with the North-West outfit, having joined ahead of their ill-fated 2023-24 Betway Premiership campaign.

By keeping Chibwe, Orbit maintain stability in a key position after relegation, while reshaping other areas of the squad.

Senior departures

The changes at the club have already seen several well-known names leave following the drop to the second tier.

High-profile veterans Ramahlwe Mphahlele, Pogiso Mahlangu, Lesedi Kapinga and Ben Motshwari have all been released as Orbit attempt to refresh the dressing room and adjust their wage bill outside the top division.

With Mahlangu added to their defensive options and Chibwe confirmed for another year, Orbit’s rebuild is taking shape as they prepare for life back in the second tier and bid to secure a swift Betway Premiership return.