The inclusion of Buccaneers players marks a notable change in South African football dynamics, with Mamelodi Sundowns — traditionally the main supplier of national team talent — still firmly in the mix, contributing 10 call-ups to maintain their long-standing reputation for producing elite performers.
Former Moroccan international Abdeslam Ouaddou weighed in on the trend, highlighting the Pirates’ commitment to supporting Bafana Bafana.
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This surge in representation demonstrates the Pirates’ growing status domestically and their ability to consistently produce players capable of performing at the continental level.
It also presents a potential challenge for other clubs, who must now compete to maintain influence over national team selections.
With AFCON approaching, the prominence of Orlando Pirates players could play a decisive role in South Africa’s performance in Morocco.
“For the club, you have to be proud to have such number of players in the national team,” said Ouaddou.
“You have to give credit to the club, we are working for the nation. And we have the duty to have results for the club but we have to prepare [the players] for the nation because soon, they will go to AFCON.
“So, we have to offer the much-competitive players to represent the nation.
“We are the disposal of the country and the coach of the national team. We have to work like that and to give good players who can perform for the national team players. I’m very happy for them.”