Tapelo Xoki embraces senior role at Orlando Pirates

Orlando Pirates vice-captain Tapelo Xoki has welcomed the senior role he plays in helping to integrate youth development products and new signings behind the scenes.

The 31-year-old centre-half was amongst members of the club involved in a road accident on the R21 highway in September 2025, as the Buccaneers were returning from Gqeberha after a 3-0 win over Chippa United in the league.

He subsequently missed the entire 2025/26 campaign, where Pirates won a domestic treble, with his last appearance in the famous black and white jersey dating back to the back end of the 2024/25 season.

While he was not playing, Xoki used his services to maintain strong and healthy team dynamics in the Bucs camp - a leadership role he has fully embraced as he continues to work his way into the matchday squad.

“For me, it's just laying the culture of the club to them, what's expected of them as professionals and what it takes to be at this level for a long time. It's a position that I've embraced as an individual,” said the Pirates defender.

"I had senior players who guided me in my journey when I was young. I played with the likes of OJ [Mbulelo Mabizela], Robyn Johannes, so at that age they made me realize the importance of having someone senior to guide you.

"And not only in terms of playing wise but in terms of behaviour as well, how to conduct yourself as a professional. So, I've embraced that role but I'm still also a competitor by nature, so I still also want to compete, but I play my role as best as I can.

With the MTN8 final on the horizon, the former AmaZulu FC skipper says they are not banking on past glory in the competition as they look to clinch an unprecedented fifth consecutive top eight crown.

“What has worked for us is to always approach each final as that final, not play the finals before. The finals we've played in the past are all in the past, the results of the past are all history now,” Xoki added.

"So, for us it's a game where you focus on what's needed on the day. The coach and his technical staff will help us in terms of preparation and what to look out for and get the experience of when it's tough in the game you have the guys who are used to the pressure.

"But other than that, it's just playing the game and focusing on the game, leave the outside noise, but fully focus on the game on the day.

Pirates will lock horns with Mamelodi Sundowns at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, with the Brazilians aiming to lift a first domestic cup title since the 2021/22 campaign.

Hlayisani Magoro

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Football journalist from South Africa covering African football news, exclusive stories and key events while sharing insights with passionate fans of the game.

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