Orlando Pirates Last League Winners 2012 | Where are they now.

In the 2011/12 season, Orlando Pirates cemented their status as one of the greatest teams in South African football history.

Under the leadership of coach Ruud Krol (2011 double) and later Augusto Palacios, the Buccaneers clinched back-to-back Premier Soccer League (PSL) titles, winning the league in May 2012.

That championship team was a perfect blend of experience, flair, and grit.

But more than a decade later, fans are often left wondering: Where are the heroes of 2012 now?

Let’s take a look at the key figures from that legendary season and what they’ve been up to since their league triumph.

Senzo Meyiwa (Goalkeeper)

Gone too soon

The late Senzo Meyiwa was one of the standout performers in the 2011/12 season.

After establishing himself as Pirates’ number one, he later became Bafana Bafana’s first-choice goalkeeper.

Tragically, Meyiwa was murdered in 2014 — a loss that deeply shook South African football.

His case remains one of the country’s most high-profile investigations.

Lucky Lekgwathi (Captain & Defender)

Now a community leader & club ambassador

The heart and soul of the team, Lucky Lekgwathi is still beloved by the Ghost Nation.

Since retiring, he’s opened a restaurant (the popular Grootman eatery in Soweto), and often features in media as a football pundit.

He also mentors young players and remains active in community upliftment programs.

Rooi Mahamutsa (Defender)

 Still playing in the lower divisions

Rooi “Ngubo” Mahamutsa continued to play in the PSL and later for TS Galaxy.

As of the last update, he’s remained active in football, taking on roles as a veteran presence in smaller clubs, and he’s expressed interest in coaching.

Siyabonga Sangweni (Defender)

 Forced into early retirement

A fan favorite known for his rock-solid defending, Sangweni was sadly forced to retire in 2016 due to injury.

Since then, he has worked on development projects in KZN and is involved in nurturing young football talent.

Oupa Manyisa (Midfielder)

From superstar to journeyman

“Ace” was one of the most electric midfielders in South Africa at his peak.

After a controversial move to Mamelodi Sundowns, his career slowly declined due to injuries and form.

He has since bounced around clubs, including Chippa United and Platinum City Rovers.

He’s currently without a top-tier club but hasn’t officially retired.

Andile Jali (Midfielder)

Made his mark abroad, now a free agent

Jali went on to play in Belgium with KV Oostende before returning to the PSL with Sundowns.

His career has been a rollercoaster, marked by brilliance and controversy.

As of 2025, he is a free agent after parting ways with Moroka Swallows.

Benni McCarthy (Striker – Coach in later years)

Now a Manchester United coach

While Benni didn’t play for the 2012 league-winning squad, it’s worth mentioning him for fans of that era.

Today, he’s making waves in Europe, working as a first-team coach at Manchester United, handling attacking roles and mentoring young talent.

Tlou Segolela (Winger)

“Sox” has shifted to coaching youth

Known for that blistering run in the MTN8 final, Segolela was a fan favorite.

He later played for Platinum Stars and Polokwane City.

Today, he works with youth academies and stays close to football in his hometown.

Daine Klate (Winger)

Now a coach and PSL analyst

Klate, one of the most decorated players in PSL history, has transitioned into coaching.

He managed Chippa United briefly and often features on SuperSport as a pundit.

He’s also vocal about football development and the state of South African soccer.

Thulasizwe Mbuyane (Midfielder)

Working behind the scenes in football

Mbuyane, known for scoring clutch goals, stepped away from the spotlight after retiring.

He’s occasionally involved in development programs and is believed to be pursuing coaching badges.

Bongani Ndulula (Striker)

 Out of the limelight

Once tipped as Bafana’s next big striker, Ndulula’s career faded fast.

He’s been clubless for several years, with little known about his current status, though he’s hinted at a potential return or transition into mentoring roles.

Isaac Chansa – Returned to Zambia, still plays at semi-pro level and involved in community outreach.

Happy Jele – Left Pirates in 2022, later joined Royal AM and is expected to move into coaching.

Lehlohonolo Majoro – Still active in the PSL, recently with AmaZulu FC.

That 2012 squad remains one of the most respected teams in PSL history.

Their attacking flair, unity, and fighting spirit brought pride to Soweto and set the benchmark for success.

Many players have retired, some are coaching, others mentoring — but all of them remain part of Orlando Pirates’ rich legacy.