Mohau Nkota’s return has given Orlando Pirates another attacking weapon — and potentially made their starting XI even more dangerous.
The Buccaneers have secured the 21-year-old winger on a season-long loan from Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittifaq, bringing him back to the club just over a year after his departure.
Nkota left Pirates for a reported fee of around R50 million, but he will now spend the 2026/27 season back in familiar surroundings as the Buccaneers target silverware on multiple fronts.
His return also reunites him with head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, who briefly worked with the winger during pre-season last year before Nkota completed his move to Saudi Arabia.
Nkota adds another dimension
Pirates have been active in the transfer market, with Nkota becoming their 10th signing of the window.
His pace, direct running and ability to operate from the wing could give Ouaddou another option in attack as the Buccaneers chase domestic honours and, most importantly, the CAF Champions League title.
With several attacking players competing for places, Nkota’s arrival could also intensify the selection battle in the final third.
How could Pirates line up?
Sipho Chaine is expected to continue in goal, with Nkosinathi Sibisi and Lebone Seema potentially forming the central defensive partnership.
Kamogelo Sebelebele could occupy the right-back position, while Deon Hotto provides experience and attacking threat from the left.
The midfield could look different while Thalente Mbatha remains sidelined through injury.
Thapelo Mokobodi and Mthetheleli Mthiyane have impressed in the centre and could retain their places, with Camren Dansin and Simphiwe Selepe among those pushing for selection.
Nkota could take the right wing
The return of Nkota creates an intriguing attacking setup.
Oswin Appollis and Tshepang Moremi could compete for the left-sided role, while Nkota offers a natural option on the opposite flank.
At the top of the attack, Yanela Mbuthuma could lead the line.
That would give Pirates a balanced combination of pace, creativity and physical presence across the front three.
Orlando Pirates XI with Mohau Nkota
Sipho Chaine; Kamogelo Sebelebele, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Lebone Seema, Deon Hotto; Mthetheleli Mthiyane, Thapelo Mokobodi, Camren Dansin; Oswin Appollis, Mohau Nkota; Yanela Mbuthuma.
Can anyone stop this Pirates side?
Nkota’s return has undoubtedly increased the depth available to Ouaddou, but getting the best XI on paper does not automatically guarantee success.
Pirates will have to balance domestic competition with their continental ambitions, meaning squad depth could prove just as important as their strongest starting lineup.
For now, however, the Buccaneers appear to have plenty of attacking options — and Nkota’s return could be one of the biggest boosts to their squad.
Is this the strongest Orlando Pirates XI right now, or would you make changes?
