Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro at the Orlando Stadium. Image: @orlandopirates/X

Orlando Pirates get encouragement in pursuit of Afcon star Hanamub

Hanamub has been a rock-solid performer for AmaZulu.

by James Freemantle

01-05-2024 07:38

in Premier Soccer League

Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro at the Orlando Stadium. Image: @orlandopirates/X

Orlando Pirates are making strides in their pursuit of Namibia and AmaZulu full-back Riaan Hanamub. The 29-year-old impressed at Afcon.

Orlando Pirates seal deal for Hanamub

29-year-old Riaan Hanamub has been a cornerstone of the AmaZulu side this season, appearing in 25 of their 26 league outings.

“It’s every player’s dream to play for one of the biggest clubs in the country,” Hanamub told iDiski Times when asked about the links to Jose Riveiro’s Buccaneers.

“But if it doesn’t happen, AmaZulu is also a big brand, and I’m really happy to be here and always willing to give my best.”

“I don’t know [if] I should indulge in that because it’s not my space,” he replied.

“I’m here now, and I’m fully committed to the team and to keep working hard. You never know what God’s plans are and I always trust in God’s plans.

“I don’t want to put myself in situations where I would lose my focus.”

Riaan Hanamub afcon — Riaan Hanamub Image Source: (@RianHanamub/Twitter)

ORLANDO PIRATES PAIR SUSPENDED

Patrick Maswanganyi and Makhehlene Makhaula will both serve a suspension this week, meaning they are unavailable for the Sea Robbers’ visit to Green Point to face Cape Town City. Kickoff between the Citizens and the Sea Robbers on Wednesday, 1 May, is at 15:00. With 16 goals in their last four outings across all competitions, Orlando Pirates are starting to purr at the right time. A win against City is imperative to keep pace with the in-form Stellenbosch in the race for a top-two finish. Stellies’ charge is being led by the red-hot Iqraam Rayners, who has 13 goals in the league this term.

Kaizer Chiefs man to replace Afcon star?

If Hanamub does make his dream move to Pirates at the end of the season, AmaZulu might be eyeing out Chiefs veteran Sifiso Hlanti as an experienced replacement. Left-back has been a problem position for both Pirates and Chiefs this season. If Hanamub moves to the Sea Robbers, a few dominoes could fall in the transfer market.