Former Pirates maestro handed another chance

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Once upon a time: Orlando Pirates’ Siphelo Baloni takes on Mamelodi Sundowns’ Sipho Mbule. Photo: Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images

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Motsepe Foundation Championship

Former Pirates maestro handed another chance

Aug 20, 2026 – 04:02 pm
By Siyabonga Ndlela

The career of former Orlando Pirates and Chippa United midfielder Siphelo Baloni has been handed a lifeline in the Motsepe Foundation Championship.

The central midfielder is understood to be on the verge of joining the second-tier outfit Leicesterford City, after struggling to secure consistent game time over recent campaigns.

Baloni returns to the pitch after spending the entire 2025/26 season without a club, enduring a frustrating 14-month spell sidelined by a long-term injury.

READ: Ndlovu hails two Chiefs stars after Sundowns battle

His most high-profile career move came in July 2023 when he penned a three-year contract with Orlando Pirates. He spent 25 months on their books before officially receiving his clearance to leave the club in August 2025.

During his time controlled by the Buccaneers, he was sent out on loan to Chippa United for the 2024/25 season, making 19 competitive appearances and scoring one goal for the Gqeberha-based Chilli Boys.

READ: ‘He’s a quality player’ – Truter hails Pirates star after Chippa defeat

The 26-year-old joins a heavily reinforced Leicesterford City roster ahead of the upcoming 2026/27 campaign. The club has been highly active in the transfer market following the departure of midfielder Matome Mmolai.

To further strengthen their squad, the National First Division side recently secured the high-profile permanent signing of former Pirates winger Sphamandla Mdunge.

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