Orlando Pirates Football Club is a professional soccer team based in Johannesburg, South Africa, with a rich history dating back to 1937. Founded by Bucs supporters, the club has become one of South Africa’s oldest and most successful football institutions.
Throughout its illustrious history, Orlando Pirates has accumulated an impressive array of accolades. The club has claimed nine South African League Championships, eight Nedbank Cup titles, and two Telkom Knockout trophies.
Its most notable international achievement came in 1995 when it won the CAF Champions League, followed by the CAF Super Cup in 1996.
Orlando Pirates shares a fierce rivalry with fellow Soweto-based team, Kaizer Chiefs, with their matches known as the Soweto Derby. The club also contests with Mamelodi Sundowns for domestic supremacy.
The team’s home ground is the iconic Orlando Stadium, which accommodates up to 40,000 spectators. Their distinctive black and white stripes adorn their home jerseys, while their away kits feature red and white.
Affectionately nicknamed “The Buccaneers,” Orlando Pirates continues to compete at the highest level, participating in the DStv Premiership (South Africa’s top division) and various domestic and international tournaments.
Some of the club’s most notable players include Jomo Sono, Steve Lekoelea, Mark Fish, Jerry Sikhosana, and Andile Jali. The current coaching staff is led by Head Coach José Riveiro and Assistant Coach Mandla Qhogana.
In recognition of its outstanding contributions to South African football, Orlando Pirates was honored as the South African Football Association’s Club of the Century in 2000.
Today Orlando Pirates wishing duo a happy birthday Nkosinathi Sibisi and Katlego Otladisa.
