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 confirm 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 Siwelele is versatile defender Baliti. Interestingly, the 24-year-old is primarily a left-back but is also comfortable at centre-back. However, the Buccaneers plan to loan him straight back to Siwelele, where he will spend the 2026/27 campaign.
Pirates have also dipped into the Motsepe Foundation Championship to secure the services of Mmolai from Leicesterford City FC. The central midfielder faces stiff competition for game time, joining a crowded midfield unit that already includes Sihle Nduli, Masindi Nemtajela, Abdoulaye Mariko, Thalente Mbatha, and Simphiwe Selepe.
These latest acquisitions join defender Sbangani Zulu from Richards Bay FC and midfielder Mthetheleli Mthiyane at Bucs, while Siyanda Ndlovu is also expected to arrive from Golden Arrows.
WHAT RAPOO, BALITI, MMOLAI BRING TO ORLANDO PIRATES
While announcing the new signings, the current Betway Premiership champions, 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,” the club said.
“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 FC 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.
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