Lebone Seema is delighted to have won the Man of the Match award for the first time with Orlando Pirates! | OneFootball

The defender is happy with his performance.

Lebone Seema is delighted to have won the Man of the Match award for the first time with Orlando Pirates!

A new defensive pillar is rising at Orlando Pirates, and his name is Lebone Seema. The defender’s commanding presence was officially recognized yesterday when he was crowned Man of the Match in a hard-fought draw against rivals Mamelodi Sundowns.

Seema’s journey to this moment is a testament to his sheer force of will. He hasn't just asked for a spot in the starting lineup; he has bulldozed his way in, making the position his own and displacing the previously established regular, Nkosinathi Sibisi. His understanding with the team's captain, the young Mbekezeli Mbokazi, has quickly evolved into one of the most formidable defensive partnerships in the entire Betway Premiership.

His performance was a masterclass in modern defending, capped by a breathtaking moment that sent the packed Loftus Versveld stadium into a frenzy. Initiating a move from deep within his own half, he combined with Dansin in a slick one-two before charging into Sundowns' territory. In a heart-stopping instant, he found himself one-on-one with the formidable Ronwen Williams. With the goal at his mercy, he unselfishly laid the ball off for a teammate, only to see the resulting shot heroically saved by the Bafana Bafana keeper.

In the aftermath of the bruising encounter, a delighted Seema reflected on the battle. "We knew that the game would be tough," he shared with OP TV, acknowledging the relentless pressure of top-flight football. "Some games we might concede, some we might not, but it's up to us to keep our heads up and continue playing."

But his thoughts quickly turned to gratitude. Beaming with pride, he added, "This is a first of many, and I'm so happy I got it playing for Pirates." His deepest thanks, however, were reserved for the sea of black and white that cheered them on in enemy territory. "They are the ones that lift us, whether we concede, win, lose, or draw. They are with us throughout." For Lebone Seema, this award was not just personal glory, but a shared triumph with the fans who fuel the fight.