Pirates, best in Mzansi? Khoza brags no team has produced great players like Bucs

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Orlando Pirates recently unveiled a multimillion-rand partnership with Amstel, which will help the running of the club.

The Buccaneers are one of the oldest teams in the country, with a massive legacy that can be matched by a handful of teams in the country. The club's chairman, Dr. Irvin Khoza, lauded what has been achieved by the young leadership.

He then explained why he believes the Sea Robbers can't be matched when it comes to producing or making stars. Khoza has now challenged those in charge to leave their mark as well in their bid to ensure the Soweto giants remain at the helm of South African football.

Khoza has further expressed his delight after Pirates came second to the Springboks in a research ranking brand strength.

Make your mark at Orlando Pirates

Orlando Pirates fans
Image – Pirates

“I was not supposed to speak today because it’s not my day. But I want to congratulate Mpumi and Nkosana Khoza. They have relieved me of the responsibility of doing the behind-the-scenes,” he said as quoted by SuperSport.

“I stand here because I am feeling emotional. I am standing on the cradle of success and history. This club is proud that when the township was born in 1932, in 1937 Pirates were formed. There were no hobbies or recreational activities except football. When we said yes to Amstel, we understand the history and the sacrifices and contributions made by so many people. 

“Up to today, you can talk about so many stars. There is no team that has produced King Kaizer Matatazela, Scara Son, Kaizer Motaung, Chipa Chipa Moloi, Jomo Sono. Make sure you make your mark to be in that stable,” Khoza continued.

‘You can't be brand without history'

“That is why our brand is so strong, because without history, tradition, and culture, you can’t be a brand. That is why this brand stood the test of time. That is why it’s important for us to share a platform with a team born in 1870 because they are also strong on legacy and tradition,” Khoza added. 

“Pirates are a team that is strong on affiliation. That is why we say ‘Once and Always’ because once you come in, you don’t come out. How do you compare a club to the national team? That shows the power of this brand – across colour lines, across traditions, across the whole continent,” he concluded.

Bucs start their 2025/26 Premier Soccer League season on Saturday at Orlando Stadium against Sekhukhune United.

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Willis Sob

Author

Willis Sob is an experienced journalist who has been in the game since 2009, covering major assignments around the continent.
His hunger for African football is unmatched, always getting the best angles and facts to feed the fans and quench their thirst.