💥FROM GLORY TO MYSTERY: The 2005 Orlando Pirates Squad – Who Made Millions & Who Disappeared? 💸👀

Back in 2005, the Orlando Pirates were one of the most feared sides in South African football.

Their squad was stacked with stars, their fanbase was electric, and their dominance on the pitch was undeniable.

They may not have won every trophy that season, but they owned the culture, the headlines, and the hearts of millions.

But what happened after the final whistle blew on their peak era? Here’s where the legendary Class of 2005 stands today — and the answers range from heartwarming success to absolute shock.

Let’s begin with the captain and midfield engine — Benedict “Tso” Vilakazi.

Once hailed as one of the most naturally gifted playmakers in PSL history, Vilakazi was tipped for European greatness.

After leaving Pirates, he made a move to Danish side Aalborg BK, but his overseas career never quite ignited.

He returned to South Africa and bounced between clubs before retiring.

Today, Vilakazi is carving out a new legacy as a coach and analyst.

He’s been vocal about youth development and regularly appears on TV — a transformation from midfield maestro to tactical mind.

Another major name from that squad, Lucky Lekgwathi, remains one of the most respected defenders in Pirates history.

Known for his leadership and never-say-die attitude, Lekgwathi stayed with the Buccaneers well beyond 2005 and captained them during their famous double-treble era.

After hanging up his boots, he took a brief step back from the limelight, but recently re-emerged with business ventures, including his restaurant, “Grootman.

” Fans love his motivational story — a man who led by example and still commands admiration today.

Then there’s Joseph Makhanya, affectionately known as “Dukuduku.

” A fan-favorite winger with blazing pace and quick feet, Makhanya had a promising career that fizzled too soon.

After leaving Pirates, he had short spells at other PSL clubs but struggled to recapture his earlier magic.

Today, he’s involved in football development, working with youth academies and occasionally making media appearances to discuss the state of the game.

While his post-Pirates journey hasn’t been headline-making, he remains passionate about the sport.

But not all stories end on a high.

Lebohang “Cheeseboy” Mokoena was once dubbed the “next big thing” in South African football.

With skills that drew comparisons to European stars, expectations were sky-high.

Although he had some successful seasons, injuries and inconsistency plagued his career.

Cheeseboy drifted between clubs including Mamelodi Sundowns, and his spark never fully reignited.

In recent years, he’s kept a low profile — some say he’s turned to private business, while others speculate he’s been mentoring players behind the scenes.

Regardless, it’s a far cry from the explosive winger fans adored.

Another surprise comes from Siyabonga “Bhele” Nomvethe, although he wasn’t a Pirates regular in 2005, he had connections with the squad.

Nomvethe’s story took a different trajectory — instead of fading, he shone brighter.

Playing well into his 40s, Bhele became one of the PSL’s most enduring figures.

Though not tied closely to the 2005 Pirates core, his longevity stands in stark contrast to others whose careers sputtered far earlier.

Let’s talk about Thabang Molefe, the rock-solid defender who brought calm to the Pirates backline.

Molefe had a respectable career, including a stint with French side Le Mans.

After retiring, he shifted gears into a quieter life, reportedly involved in security business operations and community projects.

Though he’s avoided the media circus, those who know the game remember his contributions — especially his fearlessness and big-game temperament.

Then there’s the wildcard of the group — James Mothibi.

A lethal striker with a nose for goals, Mothibi once thrilled Pirates fans with crucial strikes.

But after football? His life took unexpected turns.

In interviews, Mothibi has revealed struggles with depression, financial instability, and the harsh reality of life after fame.

However, in recent years, he’s taken steps toward redemption, mentoring young strikers and sharing his journey as a cautionary tale.

His story is one of pain, truth, and resilience.

We can’t forget Gift Leremi, one of the most electrifying talents South Africa ever produced.

Tragically, Leremi’s life was cut short in a car accident in 2007.

His death sent shockwaves through the football world, and to this day, fans wonder what heights he could have reached.

Leremi’s legacy lives on through tributes, YouTube highlights, and memories etched into Pirates folklore.

His was the ultimate “what if” story — brilliance gone too soon.

Other squad players from 2005 include the likes of Lelo Mbele, who took an unconventional route post-Pirates.

The Congolese striker had one of the most nomadic careers in African football history, playing in over ten countries, from Tunisia to Saudi Arabia to Egypt.

Rumors suggest he eventually returned to DR Congo and now operates a football agency, helping young players navigate the complex world of international contracts.

Kelebogile Mabe and Mandla Zwane were solid contributors during that season but have mostly disappeared from the public eye.

According to unconfirmed reports, some have gone into coaching at amateur levels, while others opted for complete career pivots — into business, logistics, or even farming.

So, what does the Class of 2005 teach us? It’s a mosaic of outcomes.

Some climbed new heights, some stumbled, and others simply vanished into ordinary life.

But each player left an imprint — moments of magic, heartbreak, or triumph that fans still recall with pride.

While their boots may be hung up, the memories they created still echo through the stands of Orlando Stadium.

Today, as new generations don the famous black-and-white jersey, they walk in the shadow of legends.

The 2005 Pirates didn’t just play — they defined an era.

And now, almost 20 years later, we finally know what became of the heroes we cheered, criticized, and adored.