⚽ Zakhele Lepasa Leaves Orlando Pirates After 7 Years

🏁 End of an Era

Zakhele Lepasa, the 28-year-old striker, has officially parted ways with Orlando Pirates after a seven-year stint. The club confirmed his exit on July 25, 2025, via a heartfelt social media post:

> “Thank you Zakhele Lepasa, for your commitment and contribution to Orlando Pirates. We wish you the very best in your next chapter. Once and always.”

🩺 Injury-Plagued Final Season

- Lepasa did not feature at all during the 2024/25 season due to a serious injury—the first time in his career he missed an entire campaign.

- His absence from the club’s pre-season tour in Spain further signaled his exit.

- He was listed as “unattached” in Bafana Bafana’s CHAN squad, confirming he is now a free agent.

🏆 Career Highlights at Pirates

- Joined the senior team in 2018, after rising through the academy ranks.

- Played 64 matches, scored 15 goals, and provided 2 assists.

- Won six trophies, including helping Pirates end a six-year drought with a cup win in 2020.

- Had loan spells at Stellenbosch FC, TS Galaxy, and SuperSport United.

🇿🇦 National Team Prospects

- Lepasa has 18 caps and 3 goals for Bafana Bafana.

- He’s been called up for the CHAN 2025 tournament, which could be a platform for his comeback.

🗣️ Lepasa Speaks Out

In a candid reflection, Lepasa said:

> “I did not play the entire season due to an injury... Doubt will be cast on my football career and my life, as I wonder if I can do what I do best and return to the national team.”

He added that the pain and sacrifices of the past year have only intensified his hunger to return to the field.

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💬 Fan Reactions

The announcement sparked mixed emotions online:

- Some fans expressed relief, calling it “freedom from Underachieving Prison FC.”

- Others defended Lepasa, saying he still has potential and deserves a fresh start.

- A few even urged Kaizer Chiefs to sign him.

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🎬 Final Appearance

Despite his exit, Lepasa was featured in Pirates’ Giants docuseries, celebrating his legacy at the club.

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Lepasa now faces a pivotal moment in his career. With CHAN 2025 on the horizon, he has a chance to prove his fitness and reignite his journey. Wherever he lands next, his story is far from over.

Would you like a visual tribute or timeline of his career next?