Sipho Chaine makes Orlando Pirates history with record-breaking clean-sheet run

Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine has surpassed legendary shot-stopper Williams Okpara to set a new clean-sheet record for the club in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) era, further strengthening his growing reputation at the South African giants.

Chaine reached the milestone after keeping his 27th clean sheet of 2026 across all competitions in Pirates’ emphatic 3-0 victory over Milford FC in the Carling Knockout Cup on Tuesday.

According to OptaJabu, the 29-year-old has recorded more clean sheets in a calendar year than any previous Orlando Pirates goalkeeper in the PSL era, eclipsing Okpara’s long-standing record of 25, set in 1999.

The achievement marks another significant milestone for Chaine, who has developed into one of the club’s most dependable performers since arriving from Chippa United in September 2022.

Chaine eclipses Pirates goalkeeping legend

Chaine’s record-breaking achievement places him ahead of some of the most respected goalkeepers to have represented the Buccaneers.

Okpara previously held the benchmark after recording 25 clean sheets in 1999, following returns of 19 in 1997 and 16 in 1998.

The former Nigeria international established himself as a formidable presence during his time at Pirates, making his record particularly significant for Chaine to surpass.

However, the current Pirates number one has now moved beyond that mark with 27 clean sheets in 2026, underlining his consistency between the posts.

Chaine first overtook Okpara’s 16-clean-sheet tally in 2024, when he recorded 17 shutouts across all competitions. He came close to breaking the Nigerian’s annual record in 2025, finishing the year with 24 clean sheets.

His latest achievement represents a further improvement on that tally and confirms his place among the club’s outstanding goalkeepers.

Former Pirates goalkeeper Moeneeb Josephs also enjoyed an impressive year in 2009, recording 20 clean sheets across all competitions.

The late Senzo Meyiwa, another celebrated figure in the club’s history, managed 18 clean sheets in 2013.

Chaine’s current tally puts him comfortably ahead of those figures, adding another chapter to Orlando Pirates’ rich goalkeeping history.

From underrated signing to Pirates’ first choice

When Chaine joined Pirates from Chippa United in September 2022, he was not the club’s established first-choice goalkeeper.

Richard Ofori occupied the number one position, while Siyabonga Mpontshane served as the second-choice option.

Chaine nevertheless worked his way into contention and seized his opportunity after making his debut in 2022. His performances gradually established him as the club’s preferred goalkeeper, a position he has continued to hold.

His rise has coincided with a successful period for Pirates, with the shot-stopper winning eight trophies since joining the club.

Five of those titles came under former coach Jose Riveiro, while the other three were secured under current coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.

The silverware haul reflects Chaine’s contribution to a team that has enjoyed considerable domestic success, with his ability to produce crucial saves and keep opponents at bay proving valuable.

His record-breaking clean-sheet run further demonstrates his importance to the Buccaneers as they pursue additional honours.

A new benchmark for the Buccaneers

Chaine’s achievement is particularly impressive given the calibre of goalkeepers who have previously worn the Pirates jersey.

Okpara, Josephs and Meyiwa all left lasting marks on the club, but Chaine’s remarkable 2026 campaign has placed him ahead of their best single-year clean-sheet returns.

With 27 shutouts already recorded, the goalkeeper has established a new benchmark for future Pirates custodians to chase.

His record also reinforces his growing legacy at the club, where he has progressed from an underrated signing to a key figure in a trophy-winning side.

As the season continues, Chaine will have opportunities to extend his tally and strengthen a record that has already secured him a place in Orlando Pirates history.