The recruitment drive at Mayfair shows no signs of slowing down, as Orlando Pirates have announced the arrival of the exciting trio of Neo Rapoo, Aphiwe Baliti, and Matome Mmolai ahead of the new campaign
As first reported by FARPost on the trio going to Pirates, the Buccaneers have moved in to announce the players as their new acquisitions. Amajita left-back Rapoo arrives at Pirates from Siwelele FC and is seen as a long-term investment for the Buccaneers.
He joins the Soweto giants who already have the likes of Nkosikhona Ndaba, Mpho Chabatsane, and veteran Deon Hotto in his position. Rapoo’s signing highlights coach Abdeslam Ouaddou’s intentions as he fortifies his squad for the 2026/27 CAF Champions League campaign.
Also joining Pirates from versatile defender Siwelele is Baliti. Interestingly, the 24-year-old is primarily a left-back but also at home as a centre-back.
However, Pirates will loan him back to Siwelele where he will spend the 2026/27 term. Adding Rapoo and Selepe to midfielder Bohlale Ngwato and attacker Gamphani Lungu, the Soweto giants have raided four players from Siwelele this transfer period.
Pirates have also gone to the Motsepe Foundation Championship to sign Mmolai, who arrives from Leicesterford City FC. The central midfielder will battle for game time with the likes of Sihle Nduli, Masindi Nemtajela, Abdoulaye Mariko, Thalente Mbatha and Simphiwe Selepe.
The latest signings also join defender Sbangani Zulu from Richards Bay FC and midfielder Mthetheleli Mthiyane, who have signed for Pirates, while Siyanda Ndlovu is expected to arrive from Golden Arrows.
WHAT RAPOO, BALITI, MMOLAI BRING TO ORLANDO PIRATES
While announcing the new signings, Pirates have explained the qualities their players will bring into their squad.
Neo Rapoo
The 20-year-old left-back is a product of SuperSport United’s development structures and has represented South Africa at the youth international level. A modern full-back who is equally comfortable defending and advancing into attacking areas, Rapoo brings energy, technical quality, and significant potential.
Aphiwe Baliti
Also making the switch from Siwelele is 24-year-old defender Aphiwe Baliti. Primarily a left-back, Baliti is capable of operating on either side of defence. His versatility, athleticism, and experience in the domestic top-flight make him a valuable addition to the Club’s defensive ranks. Baliti will, however, return to Siwelele FC on a season-long loan for the 2026/27 campaign, where he will continue his development and gain further first-team experience.
Matome Mmolai
Completing the trio is central midfielder Matome Mmolai, who joins the Buccaneers from Leicesterford City. The 23-year-old is an energetic and technically gifted midfielder who is comfortable in possession and capable of contributing in different phases of play. His arrival further strengthens the Club’s midfield options ahead of the new campaign.
ORLANDO PIRATES CONFIRM DEPARTURES
Meanwhile, Pirates have confirmed that Gomolemo Khoto and Siyabonga Ndlozi have sealed permanent moves to Sekhukhune United. Khoto was at Orbit College last season, while Ndlozi spent the term at Magesi FC.
Right-back Tshepo Mashiloane will be back at Sekhukhune on loan, after being with Babina Noko last season.