Giants episode 1 review: Faith, family, and football take centre stage

The debut episode of Giants delivers a powerful blend of emotion, grit, and inspiration, offering an intimate look into the lives of Orlando Pirates players and coaching staff.

Titled A Story of Faith, Family and Football, the episode sets the tone for a series that promises to go beyond the pitch and into the hearts of South Africa’s footballing heroes.

Jose Riveiro: The strategist behind the MTN8 triumph

Head coach Jose Riveiro emerges as a central figure in the episode, showcasing his tactical brilliance and emotional investment in the team.

As Orlando Pirates battled Stellenbosch FC in the MTN8 final, Riveiro’s halftime dash to the locker room to review footage was a masterstroke.

His passion was palpable, singing gwijo songs with his players and even banging a bin like a drum to rally the squad. The MTN8 victory came at a cost, with Olisah Ndah suffering a long-term injury, but Riveiro’s faith in young Thabiso Sesane to rebuild the defence proved pivotal.

Tshegofatso Mabasa: A born baller with a spiritual backbone

Striker Tshegofatso Mabasa’s story is one of pure love for the game. From sleeping with a soccer ball as a child to ignoring toys in favour of football, Mabasa’s journey is deeply rooted in passion.

Raised in a family of academics, he defied expectations, choosing football over books. His ritual of taping his hands with names of influential figures and receiving Bible verses from his mother before every match adds a spiritual layer to his success.

Relebogile Mofokeng: The special chicken with extra gravy

Relebogile Mofokeng’s rise in the PSL is likened to a “special chicken served with gravy and wedges”, a metaphor that captures his unique talent and flair.

Analysts praise his quick thinking and skill, which were instrumental in Pirates’ winning goal against Stellenbosch. Mofokeng isn’t just another promising youngster; he’s a generational talent with divine touch.

Thalente Mbatha: The self-critical star with unshakable belief

Thalente Mbatha’s segment reveals a player obsessed with improvement. After every match, he meticulously reviews his performance, focusing on every misplaced pass.

His journey began in primary school, where his love for football disrupted classes. A pivotal moment came when his mother, embarrassed by a school meeting, pulled him out of football, only to be convinced by a coach that her son was destined for greatness.

Mandla Ncikazi: Faith, blood, and brotherhood

Assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi shares a profound metaphor about building a house: “If blood is shed during construction, the house is strengthened.”This philosophy reflects the team’s resilience after Ndah’s injury.

Ncikazi’s faith and belief in divine timing helped guide Sesane’s seamless integration into the squad, ultimately leading to MTN8 glory.

Saleng’s breakdown and Nkotha’s breakthrough

One of the episode’s most emotional moments comes from the revelation of a locker room incident involving Saleng, who had to be withdrawn due to emotional distress.

This unexpected turn opened the door for Mohau Nkotha, who seized the opportunity and earned a move to the Saudi Pro League. It’s a testament to how adversity can birth new stars.

Verdict: Giants is more than just football

Episode 1 of Giants is a compelling start to a series that promises to redefine sports storytelling in South Africa.

It’s not just about goals and trophies, it’s about the people, their faith, their families, and the sacrifices behind the scenes. Don't miss the next episode as we find out more about the GIANT of Orlando Pirates.

When is the next episode of Giants?

Giants is a five-part docuseries airing weekly across Mzansi Magic (DStv 161), SuperSport PSL (DStv 202), Mzansi Wethu (DStv 163), and Showmax Premier League 1. Following the premiere on Sunday, 27 July 2025, Episode 2 is scheduled to air on Sunday, 3 August 2025.

If you missed the first episode, you can catch up anytime on DStv CatchUp. Don’t miss the next chapter filled with more drama, incredible stories of faith, family, and football.