Orlando Pirates urged to find bigger stadium as Kabelo Kgositsile makes an impact

Baroka FC chairman Khurishi Mphahlele believes Orlando Pirates may soon need a larger stadium to meet growing demand from supporters eager to watch Kabelo Kgositsile in action.

The winger made an impressive first appearance for the Buccaneers after coming on as a substitute in their 2-0 Betway Premiership victory over newly promoted Milford FC at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday.

Kgositsile showed no fear on his senior debut for Orlando Pirates, having previously spent time on loan at Baroka FC to gain regular first-team experience. The Soweto club had signed him some time ago before sending him to the Limpopo side.

Mphahlele, who watched the player develop during his loan spell, believes Kgositsile has the ability to become an important contributor for Orlando Pirates. He also expects the youngster’s performances to attract more fans to the club’s matches.

“His first match for Pirates was fantastic. He went there and fitted [in] like a hand in the glove. He is a very brave young man. I’m so excited about his future career,” enthused Mphahlele, speaking exclusively toKickOff.

The Baroka FC chairman said the debut should be the beginning of a significant role for Kgositsile rather than a one-off appearance.

“I think we’re gonna see more of him.

“He is still young. Good luck to him and Orlando Pirates, they have signed a good player there. He will give them a lot of assists and provide their supporters with entertainment.

Mphahlele’s prediction is that the prospect of watching Kgositsile play will add to the number of supporters attending Orlando Pirates matches. He suggested that the Orlando Amstel Arena might not be able to cope with the expected crowds if the winger continues to make an impression.

“Orlando Amstel Arena is gonna be too small for the fans who will be coming just to watch Kgositsile play. They need to find a bigger venue to accommodate the crowds that will be coming to watch the boy.

“The crowd will grow for sure,” added the Bakgakga boss.

Kgositsile’s appearance came as Orlando Pirates began their latest Betway Premiership campaign with a victory against Milford FC, who had only recently secured promotion to the top flight.

For Baroka FC, the performance represented further evidence of the progress the player made during his loan spell. Mphahlele’s comments underline the confidence the club has in Kgositsile’s prospects, while also highlighting the expectations now surrounding his next appearances for Orlando Pirates.

The winger’s immediate opportunity came from the bench, but his fearless display has already prompted predictions that he will feature more regularly for the Soweto giants.