The Orlando Pirates fanbase has been plunged into a state of frustration and disbelief following the official confirmation that fan-favorite wing-back Thabiso Lebitso has parted ways with the Buccaneers.
Lebitso’s departure is the headline casualty of a high-stakes player-exchange agreement that sees Stellenbosch FC midfielder Mthetheli Mthiyane arrive at Mayfair, while the hard-working 29-year-old moves in the opposite direction to the Cape Winelands.
Etched into Soweto Derby Folklore
Despite battling severe injury setbacks—including a broken collarbone and knee issues—that disrupted his momentum under coaches José Riveiro and Abdeslam Ouaddou, Lebitso’s unyielding work rate and energetic overlapping runs earned him a sacred spot among the Ghost.
His legacy in black and white was permanently sealed in 2024 at a roaring FNB Stadium. In his very first Soweto Derby, Lebitso unleashed an iconic, long-range volley into the back of the net, powering Pirates to a thrilling 3-2 victory over arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs. It remains celebrated as one of the finest derby goals in modern PSL history.
“Some Decisions I Disagree With” — The Ghost Speaks
Following the announcement, heartbroken Buccaneers took to social media to voice their disappointment, with many questioning the club’s tactical wisdom in letting a proven, treble-winning asset go.
“Some decisions I disagree with the club. Disappointed to see him go. When he was injury-free, he was a massive asset for us at the back and always gave us great energy going forward,” shared devastated fan @mingasPC. “I still think he had a lot to offer this club… Tough to see him leave in a swap deal.”
Another supporter, @LedwabaRonald, lamented how injuries halted what could have been a legendary stint: “This one hurts. Injuries have really interrupted his stay at Pirates. He was our solid number two before battling injuries.” Meanwhile, @SkayMajavula added a parting tribute: “You’ll always be remembered for the scorcher against Chiefs. All the best buddy.”
