Orlando Pirates defeat Marumo Gallants, extending unbeaten run

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdelslam Waddu confirmed that in the decisive second-round match of the CAF Champions League against La Couture Waves, he will field the team in its full squad.

CAF Champions League

La Couture Waves should expect to see a ruthless side from Orlando Pirates during the crucial preliminary round match of the second round of the CAF Champions League, which will take place at the Orlando stadium on Saturday afternoon (at 15:00).

Pirates must win the game at all costs—whether in regular time, extra time, or penalties—to secure passage to the final qualification stage after a 0-0 draw with the islanders in the first away match.

The 'Sea Robbers' are under pressure to avoid defeat at home, as Waddu used the first match as an experimental game, giving rare opportunities to young players such as Christian Derbyseize.

Although this rotation did not lead to the desired result on the scoreboard, Waddu was satisfied with the performance of his young players. During the press conference before the Orlando match, he stated: 'I have always said that we win as a team. I felt it was a chance to give some players an opportunity.'

He continued: 'Last week, some young players satisfied me very much. This means that when I need them, I can give them a chance because they are really good.'

The experiments are likely not to continue on Saturday afternoon. Waddu is expected to return to a proven starting lineup, fully aware that any mistake could lead to a catastrophic failure in qualification for the second consecutive season.

Before the draw in Mauritius, Pirates demonstrated a lethal attack, with the duo of forwards Boitumelo Radiopane and Yanela Mbutuma in excellent form. Waddu wants this pair to demonstrate their deadly play again at home.

'There will be another game tomorrow [Saturday],' Waddu stated. 'We need to qualify, so it will be a different team—a different profile of players who will show attacking qualities. We have prepared very seriously and thoroughly. We will try to show a different face of Pirates tomorrow, but it will definitely be a different game.'

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Waddu praises the imminent return of midfielder Kabelo Dlamini, believing that the player will bring necessary creativity to the team. Waddu draws a comparison between Dlamini's technical qualities and those of the legendary French footballer Zinedine Zidane.

CAF Champions League

Dlamini was spotted in training before the second round match of the CAF Champions League preliminary round against La Cure Waves, which will take place at Orlando Stadium on Saturday. Previously, he had been sidelined for over a year due to injury.

Dlamini's return comes at a critical time for Pirates, as the team participates in several tournaments this season. They are set to play a match that determines success, following a 0-0 draw in the first leg in Mauritius.

During a press conference before the match, Waddu stated: 'He demonstrates great effort every day to return and work for the team.' He continued, emphasizing the value of players in the midfield: 'I really appreciate the spirit he shows in training. Midfield players are always important—they bring creativity and can find passes in tight spaces that no one else sees. He is a player who makes quick decisions.'

Pirates currently lacks creative solutions after the departure of Relebokhile Mofokeng and Patrick 'Tito' Maswanganyi during the recent transfer window. Dlamini has received an excellent opportunity to prove himself and make an immediate impact.

Acknowledging that Dlamini's level does not match Zidane's overall level, Waddu noted that the midfielder possesses similar spatial awareness and technical skill to the World Cup winner. Waddu added: 'In this area of the field, you need players who make decisions even before they receive the ball. I don't want to compare him directly to Zinedine Zidane, but Zidane wasn't just fast—he simply knew his next move before the ball arrived. That is the intelligence we need in the center.'

The coach of Orlando Pirates, Abdeslam Oaddu, received the Betway Premier League Coach of the Month award for August. He was recognized for the successful start to their title defense in the tournament.

Under Oaddu's guidance, the Pirates team secured three victories and one draw last month, finishing first in the table with 10 points. This allowed them to level with second-placed Mamelodi Sundowns, who trailed in goal difference.

The Sea Robbers demonstrated an impressive start to the season across all aspects. They conceded only one goal, which came in a 1-1 draw against AmaZulu, kept four clean sheets, and scored an impressive 12 goals. All team players qualified for the MTN8 final, where they will face Sundowns on October 10th.

Despite the achievements, Pirates are going through a period of early recovery following the departure of several players, including Patrick Maswanganyi, Relebogile Mofokeng, Sipho Mbule, and Deano van Rooyen. Furthermore, the team is facing a growing list of injured players, among whom are key players Sichle Nduli, Talente Mbatata, Evidens McGopa, and Nkosinathi Sibisi.

Meanwhile, AmaZulu FC forward Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya was named Betway Premier League Player of the Month. He showed brilliant form for his club last month, scoring five goals in four league matches, which earned him this award.

The striker's form provided Usuthu's team with a strong start to the season: they won three games, drew one, and lost one. This allowed them to secure a strong position for further development after finishing fourth in the previous season. Coach Arthur Zwane expressed hope that Ngwenya would not be overworked as the season progresses.

The goal of the month for August went to Bryan Leon's sensational strike against AmaZulu, which was scored from a half-volley.