Njelic set to perform before Orlando Pirates face Marumo Gallants on Valentine's Day

Under the Orlando lights, Valentine’s Day will belong to more than roses and whispered promises. It will belong to song, to the rhythm of drums in the stands and to the tension of ninety minutes that could shape a title race. 

As couples take their seats and friends gather in red and black, love and football will share the same stage.

Orlando Pirates are set to face Marumo Gallants on Saturday, February 14, in a Betway Premiership clash at Orlando Stadium, also known as Orlando Amstel Arena for sponsorship reasons. 

The match holds significance for both teams at the top and bottom of the table. Pirates lead the standings and are determined to protect their advantage. Gallants sit at the bottom and are searching for points to revive their campaign.

Pirates enter the fixture with momentum after a 4-1 victory over Tshakhuma FC in the Nedbank Cup Round of 32 on February 7. The result reinforced their attacking strength and depth.

Gallants approach the match from a different position. They are looking to recover from a 1-0 defeat to TS Galaxy in their recent Nedbank Cup outing on February 8. With pressure mounting near the foot of the table, they will see this encounter as an opportunity to upset the league leaders and change their narrative.

There is also a note of caution for Pirates. Kamogelo Sebelebele, Andre De Jong and Mpho Chabatsane are reportedly one yellow card away from suspension.

Another booking could rule them out of the upcoming league clash against Mamelodi Sundowns on February 18. Discipline will be as important as intensity.

Away from the tactics and team sheets, the atmosphere will be lifted by Njelic, born Tshwarelo Motlhako.

The Soweto native is widely recognised as one of the architects of amapiano, known for a vocal style that blends soul and gospel influences.

His career reached new heights in 2019 with the release of “Shesha” alongside De Mthuda, a track that became a national anthem on dance floors across the country.

On an afternoon dedicated to love, Njelic’s setlist could lean into romance. “Sek’se Duze”, his 2025 collaboration with Kaylow featuring Luu Nineleven and La Ngwenya, would fit the mood with its theme of closeness and connection.

“Nana Thula”, his well-known collaboration with DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small, carries the feel of a lullaby and could turn the stadium into a sea of swaying lights.

“Wamuhle”, created with Boohle, Da Muziqal Chef and De Mthuda, stands out as a direct tribute to beauty and affection. “Inkani”, one of his recent releases, reflects the power of music to bring people together.

“Uvalo”, alongside Lee Mckrazy and Massive95k featuring Amaza, explores the nerves that come with deep feelings.

We predict that “Nana Thula” may be the moment of the afternoon. Its melody and message align with Valentine’s Day, and it has the reach to unite football fans in a shared chorus before the whistle blows.