Orlando Pirates secure narrow win amid injury concerns for Mofokeng

image: SA Updates

by Lwandiso Simanga 

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has confirmed that the club is still awaiting a full medical assessment on star midfielder Relebohile Mofokeng, who picked up an injury during the MTN8 semi-final over the weekend. Mofokeng missed Pirates’ 1-0 Betway Premiership victory over newcomers Orbit College at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday night.

Ouaddou explained that the decision to rest the 19-year-old was precautionary given the short turnaround. “Unfortunately, I have to discuss with my medical department. They communicated with me about the fact that he could not be a part of this game. We still do not have feedback on the exam he should do. I hope it is nothing serious because we need him,” he said.

The match Itself was far from straightforward. Pirates struggled through a sluggish first half, with Ouaddou admitting that his side were second best. “We were dominated, and I think the whole first half we lost many balls and did not have control because the opponent was good, with very good players and a lot of mobility in the middle,” he said.

It took a second-half moment of brilliance from Lebone Seema to secure the win and hand the Buccaneers their second league victory of the season. Despite the three points, Ouaddou stressed that consistency and improved control in matches will be crucial if Pirates are to meet their ambitions.