Tapelo Xoki targets comeback as Orlando Prates chase elusive league title

The experienced centre-back has yet to feature in the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season, having spent the campaign sidelined while the Buccaneers surged to the top of the table.

Despite his absence, Pirates have enjoyed an impressive season under head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, already securing silverware with triumphs in the MTN8 and Carling Knockout Cup. Their consistency has also placed them firmly in contention for the league title, as they look to end a drought stretching back to 2012.

Currently sitting top of the standings with 52 points from 22 matches, Pirates hold a narrow advantage over defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns, who trail by two points with a game in hand.

While the team continues to deliver on the pitch, Xoki has been working behind the scenes on his recovery, determined to regain full fitness before the season concludes.

"I'm grateful for life, by the way, but I'm grateful for our physios as well, and I'm grateful to everyone at the club who supported me throughout the journey," Xoki said, as quoted by FarPost.

"So I'm busy with rehab currently, and it's going well. I'm just taking it one game at a time."

The 30-year-old, who joined Pirates from AmaZulu in 2022, has been a key figure in the squad over the past three seasons. He has made 84 appearances in all competitions, contributing eight goals and three assists while playing an important role in the club's defensive solidity.

His absence this season has been notable, yet Pirates have managed to maintain their competitiveness, underlining the squad depth at Ouaddou's disposal.

As the campaign heads into its decisive phase, Xoki's focus remains on recovery - but a timely return could still provide an extra boost for a side chasing long-awaited league glory.