Football
Nick Said, Special to ESPN 6y

Orlando Pirates announced nine new signings

Orlando Pirates have confirmed the capture of goalkeeper Brilliant Khuzwayo from bitter rivals Kaizer Chiefs among nine new recruits named by the club on Monday.

Khuzwayo was expected to leave Naturena at the end of last season, having had to play second fiddle to incumbent Itumeleng Khune, but is something of a rarity as a player who has moved directly between the two clubs.

He will bring some solidity to their goalkeeping department, which has struggled in recent years as Wayne Sandilands, Siyabonga Mpontshane, Jackson Mabokgwane and Brighton Mhlongo proved sometimes erratic custodians.

Other new recruits include Bidvest Wits duo Ben Motshwari and Vincent Pule, with the latter at first tipped for a move to Chiefs.

The capture of Mamelodi Sundowns playmaker Kuda Mahachi and Chippa United leftback Paseka Mako have also been confirmed, though their recruitment has been known for some time.

Also coming in from Sundowns is utility defender/midfielder Asavela Mbekile and, as something of a surprise, fullback/winger Abel Mabaso from Chippa United.

Pirates have also raided Chippa for Linda Mntambo, who only joined the club from Jomo Cosmos in January, and Black Leopards striker Meshack Maphangule.

"The nine players will join the rest of the squad when the team returns for pre-season training on June 18," Pirates confirmed on their website.

"Strengthening of the squad has been the number one priority for the administrative office in anticipation of a gruelling season which will see the club competing in five competitions, including the CAF Champions League, which starts in November."

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