JOHANNESBURG — Orlando Pirates have officially promoted teenage winger Mpho Padime to the senior first-team squad ahead of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season. In a move signaling immense club faith, the 19-year-old Katlehong-born star has inherited the iconic #38 jersey vacated by Relebohile Mofokeng following his recent transfer to Europe.
Padime’s promotion comes off the back of a dominant campaign in the DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) under coach Roscoe Krieling. The electric winger produced 10 goals and 9 assists, helping the young Buccaneers storm to the reserve league title with a record-breaking 75 points.
Key Player Highlights & Development Journey
- Origins & Style: Discovered playing for Khathorus Juventus FC in Katlehong, Padime gained acclaim for his speed, one-on-one dribbling, and “Kasi Flava” flair.
- Choosing Mayfair: Despite receiving a development offer from rivals Kaizer Chiefs, Padime opted to sign with Orlando Pirates in September 2025—a decision that paid off rapidly.
- Pre-Season Tour in Spain: The teenager earned a spot on the senior squad’s pre-season tour of Spain, featuring against Spanish sides Córdoba CF and UD Las Palmas, where he impressed head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.
Carrying Mofokeng’s Legacy
By taking over the #38 shirt, Padime follows directly in the footsteps of Mofokeng, who developed through the Pirates academy pipeline into a PSL star before sealing an international transfer.
Padime is expected to be integrated into Ouaddou’s matchday options as the Buccaneers begin the defense of their Betway Premiership title against Milford FC on Saturday, 1 August 2026.
