Coach Seema: A rising star in Pirates’ defence

“FORTUNE favours the bold.” That old saying is fast becoming reality for Orlando Pirates defender Lebone Seema, whose rise in the heart of defence has captured the imagination of fans and pundits alike.

- MIHLALI BALEKA.

Arriving quietly from TS Galaxy, the 22-year-old wasn’t exactly a household name. But in the absence of senior defenders like captain Nkosinathi Sibisi, Seema has grabbed his chance with both hands.

Thrown into action due to injury setbacks, Seema has flourished, forming a reliable and confident central defensive pairing with young vice-captain Mbekezeli Mbokazi.

Together, they've brought balance to the Pirates backline — marrying composure with aggression, and notably impressing with their crisp, longrange distribution from the back.

Seema’s growing confidence hit another level on Tuesday night at Orlando Stadium, where he scored his maiden goal for the club — a thunderous strike that handed the Buccaneers a hard-fought 1-0 win over Orbit College in front of a passionate home crowd.

That moment of individual brilliance now sets the tone for what is expected of him, as Pirates look to extend their winning run to three games when they visit Chippa United at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Sunday afternoon.