Orlando Pirates legend Sibusiso “Rhee” Zuma believes the Soweto giants are in the best position in years to end their 13-year wait for the Betway Premiership title, but says it will come down to consistency and sharper execution in attack.

Speaking on the Soccerbeat Podcast, Zuma praised the club’s transfer business, highlighting the arrivals of Sipho Mbule, Sihle Nduli, Masindi Nemtajela, Abdoulaye Mariko, and youth product Cemran Dansin. He argued that bolstering midfield depth was crucial after last season’s limited options.

“I think Orlando Pirates have all the pieces they need to try and get the championship,” Zuma said. “On paper, they look like a better team in the PSL, so I think they just need to get it together, especially in the midfield. The IQ they have there, the quality is amazing.”

While acknowledging concerns over the team’s lack of goals, Zuma stressed the need to create more opportunities for strikers such as Tshegofatso Mabasa. “It’s going to be up to guys like Mabasa to finish them, but we need to create more chances,” he added.

The 48-year-old also underlined the importance of avoiding slip-ups against so-called smaller clubs. “Now we can win games against Sundowns and Chiefs, but can we beat Sekhukhune on a Wednesday? Those are very important games. That is championship material because the league is a marathon.”

Zuma called for another proven striker to increase competition up front. “We can use just one more piece of a very good striker, who is going to make sure that the competition drives us to get goals.”

For Zuma, the title chase hinges on teamwork and discipline. “It’s not a huge problem stopping Pirates from winning the league, it’s a matter of players coming together and working for each other.”

Photo: Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images