‘Teams Shouldn’t Breathe At Orlando’: Sibisi Issues Rallying Cry To Bucs Supporters
Orlando Pirates captain Nkosinathi Sibisi has called on the club’s supporters to continue showing the same passion they displayed last season, saying their backing can inspire the team to achieve even more during the 2026/27 campaign.
The defending Betway Premiership champions will begin the defence of their league title against newly promoted Milford FC at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday.
Pirates returned from their pre-season camp in Spain and are putting the finishing touches to their preparations for the opening match of the season.
After securing a domestic treble last campaign, the Buccaneers are determined to build on that success.
Sibisi said last season was special because the team set high standards with its performances. He believes the challenge now is to maintain those standards and continue improving, with the fans’ support playing a crucial role.
“I think with us we know we have to deliver, and that is a given,” said Sibisi.
“As soon as you sign for this club, you have to deliver. I don’t think last season lacked anything spectacular from the guys. As I’ve said, it’s a standard that we have set, and we must maintain it.”
Pirates, who won the MTN8 and the Carling Knockout Cup, added the Betway Premiership for the first time since 2011/21 season.
“We felt the support and love from our fans in full force, whether we were playing in Cape Town, at Orlando, or anywhere else. If they continue supporting the boys the way they did last season, I believe we can achieve what we did last season and even more,” Sibisi, who joined from Golden Arrows at the start of the 2022/23 season, added.
“Why not? I’ve heard a few coaches say it’s not easy coming to Orlando, and that should be the case again this season. Teams should find it difficult to breathe when they come here.
“It reflects the way the coach wants us to play — always with a high tempo and intensity, making sure we suffocate our opponents. I don’t think this season will be any different.”
