Nkosinathi Sibisi returns to boost Orlando Pirates ahead of MTN8 final at Mbombela

Orlando Pirates have been boosted by the return of captain Nkosinathi Sibisi, who is set to be available for selection in the MTN8 final against Stellenbosch FC this Saturday at Mbombela Stadium (6pm kick-off).

Sibisi missed several matches due to injury, including the crucial two-legged semi-final against Mamelodi Sundowns, which ended 2-2 on aggregate before Pirates won the penalty shootout (4-1), earning another chance at winning the title for a fourth consecutive season.

A key figure for both Pirates and Hugo Broos’ Bafana Bafana, the 29-year-old centre-back expressed his excitement at returning in time for one of the season’s most important fixtures, which will take place in front of a sold-out stadium in Mpumalanga.

“It’s good to be back with the guys training again,” Sibisi said ahead of the final.

“We know it’s going to be a difficult encounter, but we are looking forward to it and hopefully we will get the result on Saturday. 

“The preparations have been going well, it’s been a positive week for us, and we are looking forward to creating history once again in front of a sold-out crowd in Mpumalanga.”

Sibisi confirmed he will be available for selection on Saturday, and while youngsters like Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Lebone Seema have stepped up in his absence, his experience will be vital in guiding the team.

Mbokazi, who captained the side during Sibisi’s injury period, has also featured in two important 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Nigeria for Bafana Bafana, once again demonstrating maturity beyond his 19 years.

“It’s never easy when you are injured. In terms of being ready for selection, yes, I am ready for the weekend. I have been training with the guys. It’s good to be back,” Sibisi continued.

“I thought Mbokazi did a fantastic job. For him to lead such a big institution at such a young age and to do the things he has been doing, not only for Orlando Pirates but also for the national team, it can only get better from here. Kudos to him for taking up that task.”

Pirates have dominated the MTN8 in recent years, using the competition to kick-start their past seasons.

Sibisi will lead the team as club captain for the first time in a final if he is selected. Despite the huge expectations, he insists there is no extra pressure on him and the rest of his teammates.

“For us, and I speak for the whole group, it’s a competition we really enjoy playing, and the results are showing over the past three years, but can we do it for the fourth time? 

“I have mentioned even before the tournament started that it’s a feeling we don’t want to let go. On Saturday, we will do everything to try and retain the trophy. It’s our trophy, and we have to fight and show up for our supporters.

“There’s no added pressure. It’s for us as a group, not only for me as an individual. I have been part of the success of the club, winning five trophies, and to do it one more time will be special with this group of players.”