Thembinkosi Lorch remains one of South Africa’s most gifted attackers, known for his ability to turn a game on its head with a single moment of brilliance. Now plying his trade in North Africa with Wydad AC, the man affectionately called “Nyoso” continues to carry the creative burden that defined his illustrious spells at Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns.
| Info | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Thembinkosi Lorch |
| Nationality | South Africa |
| Date of Birth | 22 July 1993 |
| Latest Club | Wydad AC |
| Shirt Number | 4 |
| Position | Left Winger |
| Market Value | 500 K € |
Playing style
Lorch operates best as an inverted winger or a number 10, using his low center of gravity to navigate tight spaces.
- ⚡ Explosive bursts that allow him to accelerate past defenders in one-on-one situations.
- 🧠 Spatial intelligence which helps him find pockets of space between the midfield and defensive lines.
- 🪄 Close control enabling him to dribble effectively even on poor surfaces or under high pressure.
- 🎯 Big-match temperament seen in his knack for scoring decisive goals in derbies and cup finals.
Career
From the dusty fields of the Free State to the grandeur of the Stade Mohammed V, Lorch’s journey has been defined by immense talent and high-profile transfers. His rise through the South African ranks set the stage for his continental adventures.
The Ghost of Orlando
Lorch was discovered at Maluti FET College after a famous upset win against Jomo Cosmos. His move to Orlando Pirates transformed him into a household name, though he first had to prove himself on loan at Cape Town All Stars and Chippa United. Upon his return, he became the heartbeat of the Buccaneers’ attack.
The 2018/19 season remains his individual peak. He swept the board at the PSL Awards, winning the Footballer of the Season and Players’ Player of the Season. His ability to carry the team made him a fan favorite, and “Nyoso” became synonymous with flair and creativity in Soweto.
Sundowns and the North African Switch
In a blockbuster move in January 2024, Lorch crossed the floor to join Mamelodi Sundowns. Reuniting with Rulani Mokwena, he added a league title to his cabinet almost immediately, fitting into a star-studded lineup that included the likes of Teboho Mokoena. His time at Chloorkop was brief but effective, showcasing his maturity.
His transfer to Wydad AC marked a bold new chapter. Following his former coach to the Botola Pro, Lorch embraced the challenge of Moroccan football. The move signaled his intent to compete at the highest level of African club football, bringing his unique South African flair to Casablanca.
| Team (Appea.) | G/A/YC/RC |
|---|---|
| Orlando Pirates (176) | 34/30/18/1 |
| Mamelodi Sundowns (26) | 7/4/2/0 |
| Chippa United (17) | 3/2/2/0 |
| Cape Town All Stars (23) | 5/N/A/N/A |
The goal that silenced Cairo
Lorch’s international career is immortalized by one specific evening in Cairo during the 2019 AFCON. He scored the knockout blow against Egypt in the Round of 16, silencing 75,000 home fans. It remains one of the most iconic goals in Bafana Bafana history, eliminating the Mohamed Salah-led hosts.
Although his national team appearances have been sporadic due to injuries and form, that single finish demonstrated his clinical nature on the big stage. He has represented South Africa at senior level since 2016, always bringing an X-factor when called upon.
| Competition (Stage) | MP (Goal) |
|---|---|
| AFCON 2019 (Quarter-finals) | 2 (1) |
| International Friendlies | 7 (0) |
Clubs journey
Lorch’s path reflects a steady climb from the second tier to the pinnacle of African club football. His career trajectory shows a player who consistently stepped up in weight class, moving from NFD loans to the biggest clubs in the PSL and eventually the Botola Pro.
Each transfer has been accompanied by massive public interest, underlining his status as a headline magnet. From the black and white of Pirates to the yellow of Sundowns and the red of Wydad, he has worn some of the heaviest jerseys on the continent.
| Years | Club |
|---|---|
| 2013–2015 | Maluti FET College |
| 2015–2024 | Orlando Pirates |
| 2015–2016 | Cape Town All Stars (Loan) |
| 2016–2017 | Chippa United (Loan) |
| 2024–2025 | Mamelodi Sundowns |
| 2025–Present | Wydad AC |