Dansin Speaks On Las Palmas Win & Spain Tour

Orlando Pirates youngster Camren Dansin says being entrusted with the captain’s armband during the club’s preseason tour of Spain has inspired him to continue working hard and make the most of every opportunity given to him by the technical team.

The 21-year-old captained the Buccaneers from start to finish in Wednesday’s preseason victory over Las Palmas, delivering a composed display despite the youthful nature of the starting lineup.

What made the decision even more notable was that head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou introduced the club’s first vice-captain, Thapelo Xoki, during the second half, yet Dansin retained the armband until the final whistle.

Speaking to Michael Morton after the match, Dansin expressed his gratitude for the responsibility and highlighted Pirates’ commitment to developing young players by trusting them with significant roles.

“Obviously, Pirates believe in giving young players opportunities,” said Dansin.

“So, when you are given the opportunity, you should always try to give your best, appreciate the trust shown in you, and ensure that you add value to the team.

“There are many leaders in the team, so we learn from them, continue to grow, and try to bring that into our performances every time.”

The captaincy represents another significant vote of confidence from the club and continues a trend established during last year’s preseason tour of Spain. Then 20-year-old Mbekezeli Mbokazi was also handed the armband in friendly matches before carrying those leadership responsibilities into the first half of the 2025/26 season.

Mbokazi went on to captain Pirates in the Betway Premiership, Carling Knockout and MTN8, helping lead the Soweto giants to victory in both the Carling Knockout and MTN8 before completing a move to Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire in January.

Dansin also reflected on the team’s overall performance against Las Palmas, where Pirates fielded a largely youthful starting XI. Yanela Mbuthuma was the only player in the lineup who had been a regular member of the first team last season, while several youngsters and new signings were given the opportunity to impress.

“It was nice. We started a bit slowly but grew into the game. Also, with the new players, we started to gel a little,” he added.

“We became more comfortable as the game went on. Towards the end of the first half, we started understanding each other better, creating chances and getting into the game.

“I think we could have killed the game in the first half with the chances we created. I feel we had more chances than our opponents, so we deserved the win.”

Dansin and his teammates will now turn their attention to their final fixture of the Spanish tour against Neom FC before returning to South Africa.

The Buccaneers will then shift their focus to the start of the new Betway Premiership campaign, with their opening league match scheduled for next weekend against newly promoted Milford FC at Orlando Amstel Arena.