Orlando Pirates' Seema backed as future Bafana captain after strong start

Lebone Seema, 23, has earned strong praise for his performances at the start of Orlando Pirates’ South African Premier Soccer League campaign. The centre-back has helped the Buccaneers reach first place with seven points from three matches and a 6-1 goal record.

Seema joined Pirates from TS Galaxy last season and has remained an important defensive figure after previously forming a partnership with Mbekezeli Mbokazi. Mbokazi left for Chicago Fire in January, but Seema has continued to make an impact without his former centre-back partner alongside him.

The defender has been credited with key blocks and interceptions, while also contributing goals for the Soweto club. His progress had already been recognised with a Defender of the Season award, although he was not included in South Africa’s squad for the World Cup.

Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye believes Seema has the qualities to become a Bafana Bafana player and eventually captain the national team. Khanye also favours a future reunion between Seema and Mbokazi in central defence, while identifying Khuliso Mudau and Aubrey Modiba as suitable options on the left side of the back four.

Competition for a place in the national team remains strong, with Olwethu Makhanya and Ime Okon among the other centre-backs challenging for selection. The approaching 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers will provide a national-team context to Seema’s continued development.

Pirates have made an unbeaten start in the league, but their wider recent record is less consistent, with one win, one draw and three defeats in their last five matches. Their next PSL fixture is at home to Sekhukhune United on 25 August, as Seema continues to occupy an important role during a season spanning five competitions.