From Clubless To Soweto Derby Star: The Rise Of Appollis
Orlando Pirates attacker Oswin Appollis admits he always expected his game to reach new heights after joining the Soweto Giants, citing the elite quality of his teammates as his primary motivation.
The 24-year-old has enjoyed a stellar debut season since arriving from Polokwane City. Appollis has racked up 36 appearances, contributing 11 goals and nine assists across all competitions.
His impact was immediate, helping the Buccaneers secure both the MTN8 and Carling Knockout trophies earlier this campaign.
His form has been pivotal in propelling Pirates to the summit of the Betway Premiership with 58 points from 25 matches, currently sitting two points clear of Mamelodi Sundowns.
However, Sundowns have two games in hand, starting with a clash against Stellenbosch at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Wednesday.
“To be honest, yes—because of the players I’m surrounded by here,” said Appollis.
“I was even more motivated because of the quality in the team. It helps you grow as a player.
“So, yeah.”
Appollis’ journey back to top-level football was reignited by Kwanele Kopo at Pretoria Callies, who brought him in after he had spent 18 months without a club during the latter half of the 2022/23 season.
Kopo had previously worked with Appollis at the SuperSport United academy, where he helped develop him before the club parted ways with the player in 2022.
When the opportunity at Pretoria Callies arose, Appollis seized it, delivering standout performances during his six-month stint in the Motsepe Foundation Championship.
That form earned him a move to Polokwane City ahead of the 2023/24 season. In his debut campaign, he made 31 appearances across all competitions, scoring seven goals.
His performances led to his inclusion in the Bafana Bafana squad for the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations, where South Africa claimed a bronze medal—their first in 22 years.
In the following season, Appollis continued to impress, featuring in 29 matches across all competitions, although he scored just two goals.
That dip in scoring did little to deter Pirates from securing his services.
When the club announced his signing ahead of their pre-season tour in Spain, the news generated over two million impressions on social media.
Despite his rise, Appollis remains focused on the present rather than reflecting on past struggles.
“My job now is to work hard,” he said.
“What’s happening now is just a step that shows I’m working hard—and it doesn’t stop here. I want to keep improving.”
Pirates will once again look to Appollis when they host Kaizer Chiefs in the 185th Soweto Derby at FNB Stadium on Sunday. Appollis scored in the 3-0 victory over Chiefs in the reverse fixture in February.
