The Buccaneers sit at the pinnacle of South African football, having already lifted the MTN8, Carling Knockout and Carling Cup at the halfway mark of the 2025/26 season. Pirates also lead the Premier Soccer League standings, placing them firmly in the race for a historic league title when domestic action resumes in January, with momentum clearly on their side.
Even though some of their key players were not available, the Sea Robbers outshone the combined All-Stars team to secure another trophy. The exhibition match at the Moses Mabhida Stadium gave the Soweto giants a chance to add another collection into their trophy cabinet. The victory in the Carling Black Label Cup came after they had secured a cup double following their success in the Carling Knockout.
The Sea Robbers have been doing well in South African domestic football this season where they have already won the MTN8 and the Carling Knockout. The Buccaneers are now tipped to go all the way and win the Premier Soccer League owing to their form, quality, and depth. Bucs are also hoping to make an impact in the Nedbank Cup.
The Buccaneers boast enviable depth across the pitch, giving head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou options in every department. But that strength has a shadow side: talented players slipping down the pecking order, roles shrinking confidence fading, and careers stalling as competition intensifies in a squad built to challenge on all fronts.
His absence from recent matchday squads has raised questions, forcing his agent to clear the air amid his absence. The arrival of head coach Adeslam Ouaddou gave the forward a new lease of life, as he was the preferred striker when the season began. Speculation around his future has intensified over the recent weeks, but what has kept him out of the team has been revealed.
Although his position in the first team looked uncertain when the season began, the star played a crucial role as the Sea Robbers stamped authority on the domestic trophy. His hunger and determination have been picked as traits that set him apart.
The Buccaneers kick off their CAF Champions League campaign this weekend with a Preliminary Round clash against Lesotho’s Lioli FC at Free State Stadium, reigniting their quest for a second continental crown.
Bucs and Masandawana clash in a do-or-die duel where the winner will progress to the final and the loser will be left to gnash teeth for crashing out of the tournament.
With two straight losses, the Moroccan has had a poor start with the Sea Robbers, who looked a more solid and competitive outfit under his predecessor.