Orlando Pirates reacts after shock defeat

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has explained his reason to exclude Tshegofatso Mabasa from Saturday’s match.

The Buccaneers suffered a shock 1-0 defeat to Sekhukhune United in their first match of the Betway Premiership. Having easily swept past Polokwane City 2-0 last week at home, most fans expected another easy game for the Sea Robbers.

Ouaddou has explained why the team did not feature Mabasa on Saturday.

“No, like I told you in the previous press conference, Mabasa is available, it’s a choice that we did, but he is ready and when we will call him, I think he will be able to perform and give us the best of him,” Ouaddou said as per iDiski Times.

Mabasa yet to feature for Orlando Pirates

“Of course, you can maybe ask some questions [about his exclusion] because the strikers that we used didn’t score, so of course I understand your question. But like I said, we have a lot of players this season and everyone will get their chance at the right moment.”

Orlando Pirates will not turn their focus now to Marumo Gallants. The Buccaneers had a chance to start the season on top of the Betway Premiership after rivals Mamelodi Sundowns drew with Chippa United. A loss on Saturday now forces Ouaddou’s men to win their next match.