Orlando Pirates News Today: Third kit unleashed, why Ouaddou wants a psychologist & more 

Latest Orlando Pirates news, including the club’s third kit and why coach Abdeslam Ouaddou might need a psychologist.

Orlando Pirates unleash third kit

Orlando Pirates have launched their third kit as they continue their brilliant start to the season.

Pirates sealed their place in the CAF Champions League group stages following a 5-0 aggregate win over African Stars of Namibia on Friday after the game, they unleashed their third kit.

Having unveiled their home and away kits already, the third one with the motto; “there is no place like home”.

“Today, adidas and Orlando Pirates FC unveil the new third jersey for the 2026/27 season. The limited-edition jersey draws inspiration from the landscape, character and generations that have shaped the Club’s identity,” read a statement.

“Rooted in Orlando, the home of the Buccaneers, the jersey tells a story of belonging, resilience and togetherness, bringing the landscape of Soweto to life through a bold, contemporary design.

“The jersey’s all-over graphic is inspired by the distinctive shapes of Soweto, creating a visual representation of the neighbourhood that has been at the heart of Orlando Pirates since the club was founded in 1937. Scattered rooftops form the foundation of the design, symbolising the homes, families and communities that have shaped generations of Buccaneers.”

“Each roof represents a story. Stories of struggle and success, of generations growing up together, and of a community united by a shared identity. Brought together across the jersey, the rooftops become a collective symbol of resilience and the enduring connection between Orlando Pirates and its home,” added the Buccaneers.

“The design is presented in a dark base colourway, elevated with a distinctive palette of maroon, light purple, dusky orange and high-resolution red accents. The adidas three stripes and branding are integrated into the design, while the Club’s iconic skull and crossbones crest takes centre stage, a symbol recognised across generations of Buccaneers and deeply connected to the identity of the Club.

“Completing the look is an EQT-inspired collar construction, featuring a custom back neck sign-off that adds a distinctive finishing detail to the jersey.”

Why Ouaddou wants a psychologist

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou feels his team might need to seek professional help on how to handle the pressure of playing in the CAF Champions League.

Pirates eased into the group stages but Ouaddou says it is a whole new territory for his young team which might struggle to cope with the pressure, hence a need for help in every aspect. 

“I have good players, of course there’s always a march towards progression, but where we really have to help them is mentally. It’s helping them understand how they can manage the pressure and these types of games. If you look at the differences between the first and second half, it’s the same players but different performances,” he said as per IOL.

“I hope I can help them as a coach, but maybe we may need a sports psychologist to go a little bit deeper because I’m not a psychologist,” he joked.