Following the recent release of key strikers including Kermit Erasmus and Souaibou Marou, Orlando Pirates were reportedly considering bolstering their options by targeting Yanga SC attacking midfielder Stephane Aziz Ki.
Former Pirates midfielder Solly Mathe has voiced strong support for this potential acquisition, highlighting Aziz Ki's goalscoring capabilities and experience as crucial for the Buccaneers' upcoming campaigns.
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In an exclusive interview with Soccer Laduma, Mathe, a former midfielder based in Tshirela, Vaal, emphasized the need for a dynamic player like Aziz Ki to complement the team's current attacking players.
"I think the reason they want a winger like Aziz Ki is because of the other two strikers Evidence (Makgopa) and Zakhele Lepasa were not scoring regularly like Tshegofatso (Mabasa) so they need someone who can be able to score when Mabasa is not there. And I think Aziz Ki is the right choice of a player to support Mabasa in that regard," Mathe told the Siya crew.
Mathe also pointed out the broader strategic benefits of bringing in a player with Aziz Ki's background, especially with Orlando Pirates set to compete in the CAF Champions League again this season after finishing second to Mamelodi Sundowns in the DStv Premiership.
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"He has been playing in Africa with his team and I think that experience is what Pirates needs when competing in Africa. But at the same time he will also help in the league locally as we need to win games so that we compete for the title this season and to do that you need a striker like him. It will be good to get him this season," Mathe concluded.
Last season, Pirates faced disappointment in the CAF Champions League, being knocked out by Botswana side Jwaneng Galaxy so they failed to reach the group stages. The inclusion of experienced players like Aziz Ki is seen as a key move to enhance the team's performance in both domestic and continental competitions.
The potential signing of Aziz Ki could significantly strengthen Pirates' forward line, providing much-needed versatility and scoring power linking the midfield to the attack. As the team prepares for another challenging season in both the DStv Premiership and the CAF Champions League, securing a player of Aziz Ki's calibre could be pivotal in achieving their competitive objectives.
Mathe's endorsement underscores the importance of experience and proven talent as Pirates aim to improve upon last season's outcomes.
