Bafana star shares how joining Pirates changed his life

Bafana Bafana winger Tshepang Moremi has expressed his surprise at how his stock has quickly risen in the last six months.

Moremi was among 11 players signed by Pirates in the off-season transfer window and has taken to life at Pirates like fish to water, scoring eight goals and providing one assist in 20 matches, which earned him a spot in the Bafana Bafana squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The winger joined Pirates from AmaZulu FC and says playing for the Buccaneers is a whole different experience as he has suddenly been thrust in the spotlight while his bank balance has also increased significantly.

Moremi reveals impact of Pirates on him

“It is true that [Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns] will give you a platform to showcase your talent,” Moremi said on Prime Sports With Mahlatse.

“But for me, Pirates also changed my life, financially and as a person outside football. Even on the streets, people now recognise me.

“When I go to the mall with my family, people recognise me and ask for pictures. When I was still at AmaZulu, very few people did that.”

Moremi says he had an idea of what to expect having talked to Pirates players before his signing but did not imagine the level of fame he has received since joining the Soweto giants.

Bafana star struggling with new-found fame

“I used to ask players during Bafana camp, like Thalente Mbatha and Mbekezeli Mbokazi, and they would tell us what kind of team Orlando Pirates is and what is expected of you there,” he added.

“They explained what we should expect at Pirates. So yes, Pirates is a big club. Like I said, if I go to a certain mall, it becomes a mess, and everyone is calling my name. But I knew that would happen when I signed.”

Moremi had one goal and assist in four matches at AFCON 2025 as Bafana Bafana exited at the Round of 16 and he will now look to fire Pirates to a first PSL title in 14 years as Abdeslam Ouaddou’s team headed to the midseason break enjoying a two-point lead over second-placed Mamelodi Sundowns and with a game in hand.