Johannesburg, South Africa – Orlando Pirates and Super Eagles defender Olisa Ndah has set clear and ambitious goals for 2025, aiming to secure both the Premier Soccer League (PSL) title and the CAF Champions League. After an impressive 2024 season, where he helped his team secure the MTN8 Cup for the third consecutive time, Ndah is determined to add more silverware to his collection.
“My focus for 2025 is to win the league and the CAF Champions League,” Ndah said. “Those titles would be defining moments for me. I’ve won cups here, but I’ve never felt the excitement of winning the league in South Africa. I know what it’s like to win the league in Nigeria, and now I want to feel that same joy with Orlando Pirates.”
Orlando Pirates are currently second in the Premier Soccer League, three points behind Mamelodi Sundowns, who have amassed 30 points from 11 matches. In the CAF Champions League, the Pirates also sit second in their group, trailing defending champions Al Ahly SC by just two points.
Ndah’s leadership and contributions have been crucial to the team’s success, especially during his role as captain in 2024. Reflecting on the honor, he shared, “Captaining Orlando Pirates was a wonderful moment for me. It’s something I’m extremely proud of, especially because I’m not from here. For me to be given such a role at a club with so many talented players is a huge privilege.”
Since joining Orlando Pirates from Akwa United in 2021, the 26-year-old center-back has been a vital presence in the team. With 81 appearances for the Buccaneers, Ndah has showcased his consistency and importance. However, his 2024 season took a significant setback when he sustained a tibia fracture during a Premier Soccer League match against Polokwane City in September, ruling him out for the remainder of the year.
Despite the injury, Ndah has maintained a positive outlook. He recently returned to training, sharing a photo of himself smiling on the official Orlando Pirates Twitter account, demonstrating his resilience and readiness to return to action.
Beyond his club career, Ndah remains a proud member of the Nigerian national team. His call-up to the Super Eagles continues to be a career highlight. “Getting called up to the Super Eagles is always a privilege,” he said. “Playing in Uyo, where I have such a strong connection, was a special experience. I want to thank the coach for giving me the opportunity to represent my country.”
Ndah further emphasized the value of being part of the national team, regardless of his role on the pitch. “Whether I’m playing or not, being in camp with the Super Eagles is something I cherish,” he explained. “There’s a lot of competition in the squad, and every call-up is a privilege, not a right. I’m always there to support the team, whether on the field or from the sidelines.”
Since making his debut in 2021, Ndah has earned 3 caps for the Super Eagles, contributing to the squad’s competitive edge.
With his leadership, experience, and unyielding determination, Olisa Ndah is poised to make a significant impact in 2025, both at Orlando Pirates and with the Super Eagles. His dedication to success makes him a key player to watch in the coming year.
