Former Orlando Pirates midfielder Meshack Maphangule has joined SAFA Limpopo ABC Motsepe League side Mpheni Defenders ahead of the 2025/26 campaign in the SA third-tier league.
The 34-year-old has been without a club following his departure from Chippa United at the end of the 2023/24 PSL season.
He was one of the new signings unveiled by Mpheni on Friday, 4 October 2025. The other three acquisitions are Thulani Mabizela, Mpimo Maswanganyi, and Masilakhe Phohlongo.
Maphangule’s signing will strengthen Mpheni’s central midfield, given the player’s experience in both the Betway Premiership and Motsepe Foundation Championship, having also played for teams like Black Leopards, Pretoria Callies, and Marumo Gallants.
MPHENI DEFENDERS’ OFFICIAL STATEMENT ON FOUR NEW SIGNINGS
Mpheni expressed their satisfaction in acquiring the seasoned central midfielder and three additional players. The side believes that the new signings will add value to the team in the upcoming season.
“We are delighted to announce the arrival of the following players: Meshack Maphangule, Thulani Mabizela, Mpimo ‘Rhugga’ Maswanganyi, and Masilakhe ‘Scara’ Phohlongo. Welcome to the Bulls family,” said the ABC Motsepe League club in a statement.
Mpheni will start the new season with the Nedbank Cup preliminary stage encounter against The Dolphins FC. This game is set to be played on Saturday, 11 October 2025. The venue and kick-off time will be confirmed in due course.
Last season, Mpheni missed out on participating in the ABC Motsepe League National Playoffs. This came after the SAFA NEC made a decisive decision to ban Limpopo and the Eastern Cape from taking part in the playoffs due to their respective pending judicial matters.
Mpheni fans will be hoping that the new season brings change with the arrival of Maphangule. Meshack is the older brother of Polokwane City FC star Rodney Maphangule.
RELATED STORY: Meshack Maphangule opens up on unsuccessful Pirates stint