Orbit College coach Pogiso Makhoye has revealed that a desire to give
Surprise Ralani a fitting farewell played a key role in convincing the
veteran midfielder out of retirement.
Ralani, 38, initially hung up his boots in late 2025 after failing to secure
a new playing contract and transitioned into coaching. However, Orbit’s need
for experienced creativity arose following the premature end of Monnapule
Saleng’s loan spell.
Makhoye saw an ideal solution in the former Mamelodi Sundowns and Cape Town
City playmaker. Ralani made his debut for the rookies in their 2-0 loss to
Sundowns on Monday, showing promising signs in a 45-minute appearance.
“I felt that Ralani did not leave football the right way. He still has
football in him,” Makhoye stated after the match. “We needed someone who can
create magic… With the type of football we are playing, he can assist us.”
The coach believes Ralani, now wearing the number 10 jersey vacated by
Saleng, has the quality and “football brain” to be crucial in Orbit’s fight
for top-flight survival. He pointed to other veterans still playing as
inspiration.
“If we can play with Batsi at 43, Ralani at 38… why should he retire?”
Makhoye asked. “We are building his fitness. In the next few games, he will
be able to start and finish a game.”
With Orbit currently in 13th place, the club is counting on Ralani’s vision
and final pass to help secure their Premiership status, offering the veteran
a chance to script a more satisfying conclusion to his playing career.
