Zakhele Lepasa Parts Ways with Orlando Pirates After Five-Year Stint
Orlando Pirates have officially parted ways with striker Zakhele Lepasa, bringing to an end a five-year journey. This journey began with promise and potential. The Soweto giants confirmed the news as part of their wider squad overhaul. This is ahead of the upcoming 2025/26 Betway Premiership season.
Having risen through the club’s development ranks, the 28-year-old forward was promoted to the senior team in 2018. Despite flashes of brilliance, Lepasa’s time in the black and white jersey has been marred by recurring injuries. His career also suffered from limited game time.
A Star Born at TS Galaxy
Shortly after joining the first team, Lepasa was loaned to TS Galaxy where he made an immediate impact. It was during his stint in the lower division that he announced himself on the big stage. He famously netted the winning goal in the 2019 Nedbank Cup final against Kaizer Chiefs. This was a moment that made him a household name and helped Galaxy lift the trophy as a second-tier team.
His impressive performances at Galaxy earned him a recall to the Pirates squad. He was expected to compete for a regular spot among the forwards.
Injuries Stall His Momentum
Despite his early promise, Lepasa’s career at Pirates never quite took off as expected. Injuries repeatedly halted his momentum, and consistency became elusive. His most productive season came in the 2023/24 campaign, where he registered 10 goals in 23 appearances across all competitions. Yet, last season saw him sidelined for the entire term, without a single competitive appearance.
With Tshegofatso Mabasa and Evidence Makgopa becoming mainstays in the striking department under then-head coach Jose Riveiro, the addition of Boitumelo Radiopane caused Lepasa to slip further down the pecking order.
No Place in the New Era
Pirates’ recent acquisitions include the likes of Yanela Mbuthuma from Richards Bay FC, Oswin Appollis, Sipho Mbule, and Tshepang Moremi. These signaled a clear shift in direction. The club is building a squad focused on depth and versatility. This left little room for a player with Lepasa’s recent injury history.
On Friday morning, the Buccaneers paid tribute to the departing striker. “Thank you, Zakhele Lepasa, for your commitment and contribution to Orlando Pirates. We wish you the best in your next chapter,” the club posted on their official platforms.
A Surprise National Call-Up Amid Uncertainty
Interestingly, Lepasa received unexpected news during an exclusive screening of Giants, an Orlando Pirates docuseries. He was also named in the national squad for the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN). It took place across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda from 2 to 30 August.
Now considered a free agent by SAFA, Lepasa seemed both surprised and cautiously optimistic. “I’m yet to think about it,” he told reporters at Orlando Stadium. “For me, it’s not just about being happy. If I can see myself playing again, training well, and feel like myself again… that’s one thing I am looking forward to.”
Despite the SAFA listing him as “unattached,” Lepasa was adamant about his status. “I am still an Orlando Pirates player, unless discussed otherwise,” he said.
A New Chapter Awaits
As Lepasa closes this chapter of his career, he leaves with both regrets and highlights. His journey from the youth system to being a cup-final hero at Galaxy. He had a promising but injury-affected stint at Pirates. This offers a sobering reflection of how unpredictable football careers can be.
Where he ends up next remains to be seen. However, if his attitude and resilience are anything to go by, Zakhele Lepasa still has more to offer the beautiful game, just perhaps in a different jersey.
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