Pirates sign Bafana international to bolster goalkeeping department

According to highly reputable South African news outlet, iDiski Times, Orlando Pirates have secured the signing of Melusi Buthelezi for next season. 

The TS Galaxy goalkeeper is set to sign a two year contract with the option of a third year. He will join a shot-stopping department that already includes Ghana international Richard Ofori, as well as Sipho Chaine and Siyabonga Mpontshane. The latter is expected to depart The Sea Robbers.

Buthelezi won August 2022’s Player of the Month Award in the DSTV Premiership, earning himself a Bafana Bafana call-up. In a 4-0 friendly win over Sierra Leone in September, he made his international debut. 

With Richard Ofori out injured since November due to a knee injury, Sipho Chaine has deputised admirably of late. Although his stats of six clean sheets in 20 appearances is a meagre return, his ball-playing ability has been impressive. 

The arrival of Buthlezi will increase competition in a key area. It could also hasten the departure of Ofori, who has not lived up to expectations since his arrival from Maritzburg United. A number of howlers have been seen by the Ghana international, including against Baroka FC and Swallows FC. 

Meanwhile, Mpontshane was to blame for a goal from 55 yards by Kaizer Chiefs’ Yusuf Maart. He was just 18 yards off his line when the shot was struck but was unable to get back to make the save. 

Buthlezi’s sale by TS Galaxy comes on the heels of financial difficulties at the club. 

Centre back Spiwe Given Msimango has agreed to join Kaizer Chiefs in the off-season whilst left back Tshegofatso Nyama is on his way to Cape Town City.