Thapelo “Sugar” Duiker: Orlando Pirates Sign Teenage South African Winger Set to Join After Matric
- Orlando Pirates have reportedly signed a South African forward from an academy as they bolster their squad ahead of next season
- The Soweto giants will wait for the young winger to finish his studies before linking up with his other teammates at the Sea Robbers
- The news about the Premier Soccer League giants signing the young winger sparked reactions from fans on social media
PAY ATTENTION: You can now search for all your favourite news and topics on Briefly News.
Orlando Pirates continue to invest in adding more quality to their academy as they secure the signing of promising youngster Thapelo “Sugar” Duiker from the James Mothibi Sports Academy.
Source: Facebook
The South African forward is reportedly born in 2007 and would be playing for the Sea Robbers DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) side before being given a chance in the first team.
The Soweto giants are reportedly close to losing Relebohile Mofokeng, with top clubs in Europe showing interest in signing the South African international. The Bafana Bafana star scored his first-ever career hat-trick during the Buccaneers' win over TS Galaxy in the Betway Premiership.
Pirates sign Duiker from James Mothibi Sports
According to a report by Football Stage on Facebook, Duiker has reportedly penned a two-year contract with the Betway Premiership giants.
PAY ATTENTION: stay informed and follow us on Google News!
The 19-year-old is currently a student at Gaopalelwe Secondary School, and he caught the PSL giant's attention after impressing at the 2026 Under-19 Pirates Cup. This competition has become central to the Pirates’ talent identification strategy.
Despite signing, the South African youngster is expected to officially join the Sea Robbers setup only after completing his studies.
What you need to know about Duiker
Duiker is a solid winger, and he originates from Bloemhof, the same hometown as former Orlando Pirates star Monnapule Saleng, who recently joined Mamelodi Sundowns.
The youngster operates primarily as a winger. He is recognised for his agility, attacking intent, and confidence in beating defenders in one-on-one scenarios.
Source: Facebook
The Pirates Cup continues to serve as a crucial recruitment platform for the club, having previously unearthed talents such as Mofokeng during his time with the School of Excellence.
Duiker’s progression also highlights the influence of his mentor, James Mothibi, a former Pirates player who spent two seasons with the senior team.
Here is what fans are saying on social media concerning Orlando Pirates' decision to sign the South African youngster.
Buntu Yiva shared:
"Give Jersey number 15 kwiDDC then promote him next season and give him number 38, and thank me later😌."
Ratang Junior said:
"We all know legends are made to uplift other legends through football. We are not blind to what's happening in our football.😔"
Realeboga Mimi mentioned:
"I am so proud of you 👏 sugar 💗 💕."
Terekegn Dessie wrote:
"Wow, young guy Thapelo, congratulations. Stay humble, and you will go far."
Quintin Quintin commented:
"Product of my hands, proud of you, my boy, congratulations, coach and my boy sugar 🙏🙏❤️."
TA Izzy Mofokeng added:
"You've worked hard for this moment. Keep pushing yourself to new heights! Congrats again! 💯."
Kaizer Chiefs' youngster joins Pirates
Briefly News also reported that a Kaizer Chiefs promising player nicknamed 'Messi' has left the club for the bitter rivals, Orlando Pirates.
The youngster was tipped to make it into Amakhosi's first team in the future, but he would now be playing for the Bucs.
PAY ATTENTION: Follow Briefly News on Twitter and never miss the hottest topics! Find us at @brieflyza!
Source: Briefly News
