Orlando Pirates new signing Ghampani Lungu is already proving to be one of the most versatile players in the Buccaneers squad after featuring in three different positions during his opening four competitive matches.
The Zambian international has wasted little time making an impression since arriving at the Soweto giants, showing that his ability to adapt could become a major asset for the Pirates as the season progresses.
Lungu has already played at right-back, right wing and centre-forward, giving the technical team plenty of options when it comes to changing their approach during matches.
Lungu’s Pirates journey starts at right-back
The 2026/27 campaign began with Lungu operating in an unfamiliar role for some supporters, as he was deployed at right-back during Pirates’ 2-0 Betway Premiership victory over Milford FC.
He retained his place in the same position for the MTN8 quarter-final against Durban City, but it was in that match that the 24-year-old announced himself to the Buccaneers faithful.
With the game heading towards extra time, Lungu pushed forward and produced the decisive moment in the 120th minute, scoring the winner as Pirates secured a dramatic 2-1 victory.
It was the kind of contribution that highlighted both his attacking instincts and his willingness to get forward from a defensive position.
From full-back to winger
Lungu’s role changed in Pirates’ next two matches as he was moved further up the pitch.
The Zambian was deployed as a right winger against AmaZulu before retaining the position against Chippa United.
His pace, direct running and ability to attack defenders provided Pirates with another dimension in the final third.
But against Chippa, coach Abdeslam Ouaddou demonstrated just how useful Lungu’s versatility could be.
Lungu switches to striker — and scores
Lungu began the match on the right flank before being moved into a striker’s role for the final 15 minutes.
The tactical adjustment immediately produced results.
The attacker found space inside the penalty area, brilliantly turned away from his marker and fired home to give Pirates the lead in their convincing 3-0 victory.
The goal was also significant because it opened Lungu’s account in the Betway Premiership, adding another attacking contribution to an already impressive start.
Four competitive appearances into his Pirates career, Lungu has now demonstrated that he can operate effectively in three different positions.
A valuable weapon for Orlando Pirates
For a club competing on multiple fronts, having a player capable of covering several positions can be extremely valuable.
Lungu’s ability to move between defence, midfield and attack gives the Pirates coaching staff greater tactical flexibility, particularly during matches when injuries, substitutions or tactical changes require players to adapt quickly.
His early performances also suggest that his versatility isn’t simply about filling gaps. Lungu has already shown that he can create chances, beat defenders and score important goals regardless of where he is deployed.
If he maintains this level of impact, the Zambian could quickly establish himself as one of Orlando Pirates’ most useful players this season.
Three positions. Four games. Two goals. And plenty more to come.
