Orlando Pirates midfielder Abdoulaye Mariko says wearing the Buccaneers jersey for the first time was a dream come true.

The 23-year-old arrives at the club from Malian outfit Djoliba AC on a permanent basis.

The Malian midfielder made his debut for the Soweto giants during their 2-0 victory over Polokwane City in the quarter-finals of the MTN8.

Mariko was pleased to have made his debut in front of the South African crowd and feels proud to represent the Sea Robbers.

“Football has always played a big role in my life – from street games to training academies – I’ve always chased this dream,” Mariko told his club’s official website.

“Joining Djoliba was a major step in my career. It’s one of the biggest clubs in Mali, and it helped me grow both technically and mentally.

“It was at Djoliba that I truly understood what it means to be a professional footballer.”

“Wearing the Pirates jersey for the first time felt like a dream come true.

“I knew I was representing a club with great history, pride, and passionate supporters – I felt a deep responsibility to give my best.”