Mohau Nkota is back at Orlando Pirates and ready to fight for his place, but the 21-year-old winger faces a tough battle to become a regular under head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.
Nkota returned to the Buccaneers on loan from Saudi Arabian club Al-Ettifaq on 3 September, giving Pirates another attacking option as they compete across multiple fronts.
However, his preferred position on the right side of the attack is already occupied by players who have made strong starts to the season.
Nkota faces stiff competition
Nkota will have to compete with Ghampani Lungu and Bafana Bafana international Tshepang Moremi for opportunities on the right flank.
Both players have earned the trust of Ouaddou not only through their attacking contributions but also through their willingness to work hard when Pirates do not have possession.
That defensive intensity could be one of the biggest factors in determining how quickly Nkota earns a regular starting role.
Lungu has made an immediate impact
Zambian winger Ghampani Lungu has quickly established himself as an important part of the Pirates attack since arriving from Siwelele FC in June.
Despite missing several matches through injury, Lungu has recorded four goals and one assist in seven appearances.
One of his biggest moments came in the MTN8 semi-finals when he scored the extra-time winner against Durban City to help Pirates reach the final.
His contribution goes beyond goals and assists. Lungu has produced 13 key passes and averaged around 146 touches across his appearances, while also contributing defensively.
For Nkota, that combination of attacking productivity and work rate sets a clear benchmark.
Moremi presents another challenge
Then there is Tshepang Moremi, who quickly became a regular after joining Pirates from AmaZulu.
The winger featured 26 times in his debut season, finishing with five goals and four assists.
Although an injury kept him out for part of September, Moremi has already made an impact this campaign with three goals in seven matches.
His defensive numbers also underline why he remains trusted by the coaching staff. Moremi has registered 22 tackles and eight interceptions this season.
What Nkota needs to do
Nkota therefore has more to prove than simply showing his quality in the final third.
To force his way into Ouaddou’s preferred XI, the youngster will need to demonstrate that he can match the intensity of Lungu and Moremi while offering his own attacking strengths.
Goals and assists will obviously help, but consistent pressing, defensive contributions, intelligent movement and the ability to follow tactical instructions could ultimately determine his place in the team.
With Pirates competing in the MTN8, Betway Premiership and continental football, opportunities should come. Nkota’s challenge will be making sure that when his chance arrives, he gives Ouaddou a reason to keep selecting him.
Pirates prepare for MTN8 final
Pirates’ immediate focus is the MTN8 final against Mamelodi Sundowns on Saturday, 10 October.
The blockbuster clash will be played at Moses Mabhida Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 18:00.
Whether Nkota features in the final or not, the competition for attacking places at Pirates is likely to remain fierce throughout the season.
Can Mohau Nkota force his way into the Orlando Pirates starting XI?
