Zakhele Lepasa departs Orlando Pirates, joins Bafana Bafana CHAN Squad

Zakhele Lepasa, the Soweto-born striker who rose through the ranks of the Orlando Pirates academy, has officially parted ways with the club after five years in the senior team. Lepasa, now a free agent, has been named in South Africa’s Bafana Bafana squad for the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2025.

Homegrown Hero Becomes Free Agent

On 25 July 2025, Orlando Pirates confirmed Lepasa’s exit and shared the club’s gratitude for his contributions. Despite injuries hampering his 2024–25 season, during which he didn’t feature competitively, he remains a cherished figure for fans and club insiders alike. The Pirates wish him well in the next chapter of his career.

Career Journey: From Academy to First Team

Lepasa started at Pirates’ youth setup in Soweto and broke into the senior squad in 2019. He gained valuable experience on loan to Stellenbosch FC, TS Galaxy, and SuperSport United. His standout moment came at TS Galaxy, where he scored the decisive goal in the 2019 Nedbank Cup final, handing the second-division side a historic victory over Kaizer Chiefs.

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Performance Record with Pirates

Over his time at Pirates, Lepasa made 64 appearances, scored 15 goals, and provided two assists, contributing to multiple cup wins. His most prolific season came in 2023–24 with 10 goals in 23 matches across competitions. Unfortunately, injury woes sidelined him entirely during the most recent season.

Included in Bafana Bafana CHAN Squad as Unattached Player

South Africa has named Lepasa in its 25-man squad for the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2025, which only includes players active in domestic leagues. He joins 11 other free agents, including high-profile names like Keagan Dolly and Thabiso Kutumela.

Why the CHAN Squad’s Heavy Reliance on Free Agents?

With clubs reluctant to release their top players during domestic season preparations, the CHAN squad leans heavily on unattached footballers. These free agents bring experience, hunger, and motivation to impress, possibly earning new contracts. Coach Molefi Ntseki emphasized the team’s blend of emerging talent and seasoned campaigners.

What’s Next for Lepasa?

The striker is poised to seek a new club ahead of the 2025–26 season. Believed to have drawn interest from both domestic Premier Division sides like SuperSport United and Cape Town City, and foreign scouts. Zakhele Lepasa hopes to regain form and re-enter the national team setup.

Fan and Club Reaction

Supporters flooded social media with tributes calling Lepasa a “true Buccaneer” who “bled black and white.” Pirates’ formal statement spoke volumes of his dedication and professionalism.

Zakhele Lepasa’s departure from Orlando Pirates marks the end of a landmark era for both player and club. As he turns the page on his career, inclusion in the CHAN squad offers redemption and opportunity. Fans, observers, and potential suitors will watch closely to see if he can reignite his form and build on a legacy defined by perseverance and promise.