MAKHAULA EARNS ORLANDO PIRATES EXTENSION

MAKHAULA EARNS ORLANDO PIRATES EXTENSION

According to Soccer-Laduma, there’s speculation that the 34-year-old midfield stalwart, Makhehlene Makhaula, might be in line for an unexpected contract extension with Orlando Pirates. Makhaula, formerly with Free State Stars and AmaZulu, has been playing a pivotal role in the Pirates midfield since February, even surpassing Bafana Bafana player Thabang Monare in the team’s midfield hierarchy.

A source close to the club stated, “As for (Makhaula), it’s as good as done. Everything has progressed smoothly in the negotiations, and he’s been granted another year. His age was considered, but his impressive performance since returning from injury has been noted. He’s been a regular starter, and the technical team has faith in him. So, for now, it’s a one-year extension for Makhaula.”

Furthermore, Makhaula is expected to feature in the upcoming match against Richards Bay, as Thalente Mbatha will be sidelined due to accumulating four bookings. Despite facing a team battling relegation, Pirates will miss Mbatha’s presence, but Miguel Timm is set to step in for him.

Additionally, there’s speculation among fans about the possibility of Relebohile Mofokeng being bestowed with the prestigious number 10 jersey, following in the footsteps of legends like Jomo Sono. Fans believe Mofokeng is capable of carrying the legacy associated with the jersey.

As the season progresses, fans are curious whether Orlando Pirates will finish with silverware and secure a spot in the CAF Champions League.

MAKHAULA WILL KEEP HIS PLACE FOR THE RICHARDS BAY CLASH

Thalente Mbatha will be absent from the match against Richards Bay on Saturday, May 11th, after receiving his fourth booking of the season during the game against Chippa. Despite Mbatha’s absence, Orlando Pirates managed a comfortable 2-0 victory over Chippa, with Tshegofatso Mabasa scoring a brace. Mbatha, who has been a pivotal player since his loan arrival from SuperSport, is anticipated to be signed permanently by Pirates. While the match against relegation-threatened Richards Bay is not the most challenging fixture for him to miss, as they fight to remain in the top flight, his absence will be felt. Miguel Timm is expected to fill in for the suspended Mbatha, alongside Makhehlene Makhaula in midfield. The match between Pirates and Richards Bay is scheduled for 20:00 on Saturday.

IS MOFOKENG READY FOR NUMBER 10?

Jomo Sono is a legendary figure in South African football, known for his remarkable contributions. He enjoyed five memorable years with Orlando Pirates before venturing into a new chapter in North America. While others like Steve Lekolea and Vincent Pule briefly donned his iconic number 10 jersey, nobody quite embodies it like Jomo. However, the number 10 tradition has faded somewhat over time. Yet, there’s been a growing desire among fans for Relebohile Mofokeng to inherit this prestigious number. While it’s a significant honor, it could also be viewed as a weighty responsibility. Nonetheless, supporters are confident that Mofokeng has the capability to shoulder this legacy.