Defending the title will be a different challenge, but the Buccaneers have assembled a squad that gives them every chance of staying at the top.

Despite several key departures, Pirates have strengthened in important areas while keeping the core of the side that delivered last season's success.

Here are five reasons why they could retain their league crown.

1. Firepower Added Up Front

One of Pirates' biggest moves during the transfer window was the signing of Norwegian striker Sebastian Pedersen.

The 27-year-old arrives from Norwegian club Sogndal with a reputation for finishing chances and should provide another reliable goal-scoring option - he has recorded 51 goals in the last 117 matches. His arrival gives Pirates greater competition in attack and more variety in the final third, something that could prove vital over a long season.

He will team up with the likes of attackers Evidence Makgopa, Yanela Mbuthuma, Oswin Appollis and Tshepang Moremi who scored 25 league goals between them.

2. Mokobodi Brings Versatility

New recruit Thapelo Mokobodi could become one of the smartest signings of the window.

The 23-year-old joined from Stellenbosch FC and is comfortable playing as a central midfielder, defensive midfielder or right-back. His ability to perform in several positions gives coach Abdeslam Ouaddou valuable tactical flexibility while strengthening the squad's defensive balance.

3. Ouaddou Starts With a Clearer Vision

Abdeslam Ouaddou guided Pirates to an outstanding 2025/26 campaign, but the demands of competing on several fronts took their toll.

Now entering his second full season in charge after joining in June 2025, the coach has a better understanding of the club's structures and expectations. That familiarity should allow him to focus even more on improving the team while reducing unnecessary pressure on the players throughout another demanding campaign.

4. A Defence Built on Solid Foundations

Championship-winning teams are often built on strong defending, and Pirates proved that last season.

The Buccaneers conceded just 12 league goals, producing one of the best defensive records in recent PSL history. Captain Nkosinathi Sibisi remains the leader of a disciplined backline that has already shown it can consistently keep opponents quiet.

Sibisi has also made it clear that the squad is aiming high once again, saying the players are targeting another domestic treble and will not settle for anything less. He is joined by the likes of new signings Sbangani Zulu, Neo Rapoo and Aphiwe Baliti in defence.

5. Greater Squad Depth

Pirates have refreshed their squad with several new arrivals to cope with the demands of league, cup and continental football.

Alongside Pedersen and Mokobodi, the club have added defender Neo Rapoo, centre-back Sbangani Zulu, winger Edmilson Chaney, midfielders Matome Mmolai, Bohlale Ngwato and Mthetheleli Mthiyane, as well as experienced forward Gamphani Lungu.

The increased depth should help Ouaddou rotate his squad without sacrificing quality during a busy season.

Pirates have also overseen a significant squad reshuffle ahead of the new campaign.

Among the biggest departures is exciting winger Relebohile Mofokeng, who completed a move to Belgian club Royale Union Saint-Gilloise. Sipho Mbule joined Zakho SC in Iraq, while Karim Kimvuidi moved to Hapoel Petah Tikva in Israel.

Other players to leave include Thabiso Lebitso, Thabiso Sesane, Selaelo Rasebotja, Siyabonga Ndlozi, Gomolemo Khoto, Sonwabo Khumalo, Blessing Ngiba, Seth Green, Bandile Shandu, Tshegofatso Mabasa and Melusi Buthelezi.

Replacing so many players is never easy, but Pirates have responded by recruiting across every area of the pitch. If the new signings settle quickly and the defensive standards remain as high as last season, the Buccaneers will have every opportunity to defend their Betway Premiership title.

Stellenbosch did South Africa proud, says head coach Steve Barker