Sibisi Shifts Attention to Carling Knockout While Leading the League

Nkosinathi Sibisi, the captain of Orlando Pirates, stays grounded as his team leads the Betway Premiership standings with 28 points after 12 matches.

As 2025 comes to a close, Pirates maintain a two-point lead over Mamelodi Sundowns, who were held to a draw by Siwelele on Wednesday.

When asked about the team’s chances of winning the league title this season, Sibisi shifted his focus to the upcoming Carling Knockout final against Marumo Gallants.

“For now, we’ve closed the league chapter,” Sibisi commented.

“Currently, our primary focus is the Carling Knockout final [against Marumo Gallants at the Peter Mokaba Stadium] this Saturday, and we can reassess the league afterwards,” Sibisi added.

“Our current standing showcases the commitment and hard work we’ve invested.”

While aiming for league success is a long-term ambition, Sibisi emphasized that their immediate goal is to secure the Carling Knockout title, which could pave the way for a potential domestic treble for Pirates following their MTN8 victory earlier this season.

The Buccaneers last claimed the league trophy in the 2011/12 season, a year when they also celebrated a treble, capturing both the Carling Knockout and MTN8. Since then, Pirates have been league runners-up for the last three seasons.

Given their stellar performances and another sold-out crowd anticipated in Polokwane, Sibisi believes the team can create memorable moments.

“Playing in a packed stadium is a one-of-a-kind experience, and it seems to have become our routine,” he remarked.

“Having the backing of our fans is priceless, and the players consistently step up.”

“The festive season is about generosity, and securing a win this weekend would be a wonderful gift for our fans as they fill the stadium.”

Saturday’s final will be Pirates’ last game of the year before the PSL pauses for the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, set for late December to January 2026.

Sibisi will also be heading to Morocco after being selected for the Bafana Bafana squad for AFCON. This will mark his second tournament appearance, having been part of the national team that earned a Bronze Medal in the 2024 edition in Ivory Coast.