Why I took out Tito after 38 minutes

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has shed light on his decision to hook Patrick Maswanganyi inside the first half during the MTN8 clash against Mamelodi Sundowns, a move that left many fans stunned.

Maswanganyi, usually one of Orlando Pirates’ most trusted attacking sparks, lasted only 38 minutes. The change raised eyebrows across Mzansi, with many wondering if it was due to injury, discipline, or a tactical gamble.

The Tembisa-born star was replaced by the right-back Bandile Shandu, a move that pushed Kamogelo Sebelebele back to his wing role, while Relebohile Mofokeng moved from the wing to the number 10 role left open by Patrick Maswanganyi.

COACH ABDESLAM OUADDOU EXPLAINS PATRICK MASWANGANYI DECISION

“You know, I have been a player for 17 years in the high-level,” Ouaddou told SuperSport TV after the game. “This can happen sometimes that we are not in the game. It doesn’t mean that you are a bad player, I believe on him.

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“He is a fantastic player; he’s been very important for the club since many years. So, today was maybe not his time so I’m sure he will help us in the future,” Ouaddou added.

In the meantime, Orlando Pirates’ penalty kicks victory set up a final against Stellenbosch FC on 13 September.

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