Conveyor Belt: Pirates Cooking Another Star?

Orlando Pirates may already have another exciting academy graduate preparing to knock on the first-team door.

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The Buccaneers’ development structures have become one of the most productive talent pipelines in South African football in recent years, producing the likes of Relebohile Mofokeng, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Mohau Nkota, Cemran Dansin, Simphiwe Selepe and Boitumelo Radiopane.

Now, Siya sources believe 18-year-old attacking midfielder and forward Mpho Padime could be the next youngster being prepared for the big stage at Mayfair.

Padime, affectionately known as “Phopho” within football circles, enjoyed a standout 2025/26 DStv Diski Challenge campaign under coach Roscoe Krieling, helping Pirates clinch the reserve league title while also finishing as the club’s Top Scorer with 10 goals.

What has made Padime’s rise particularly impressive is that he offers far more than flair and tricks.

The teenager has built a reputation as a match-winner capable of both scoring and creating goals, with his intelligence in the final third, technical sharpness and ability to influence games making him one of the most highly-rated prospects currently coming through the Pirates system.

Insiders close to the club have indicated that Padime has already spent time training with the senior side, where decision-makers have continued monitoring his development closely.

The Siya crew previously reported in November that the youngster was edging toward a possible breakthrough, though the decision was ultimately made for him to continue sharpening his game in the DDC this season.

That choice now appears to have paid off.

Padime not only helped deliver silverware at reserve level, but also strengthened his growing reputation as one of the country’s brightest young attacking talents.

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Sources have suggested that coach Abdeslam Ouaddou remains committed to continuing the club’s recent tradition of promoting young talent, following the pathway previously opened by former coach José Riveiro.

Within the club, there is increasing belief that Padime possesses the mentality and football maturity needed to eventually handle senior football.