Sebelebele, Tito, R10 million, Walaza, Mofokeng

Orlando Pirates appear to have found their right combinations this season following their win over Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8.

The Buccaneers claimed a 4-1 win on penalties on Saturday afternoon in the MTN8 semi-final after the match finished 2-2 on aggregate.

The star of the tie was no doubt Kamogelo Sebelebele. The speedy winger scored in both league to help his team come from behind twice to secure draws at home and away. His performance so far this season has been hailed and is no doubt one of Orlando Pirates’s best players this campaign.

Where Sebelebele succeeded, another Bucs player failed. Fan Favourite Patrick ‘Tito’ Maswanganyi started Saturday’s second leg against Downs but was subbed off before half-time. His substitution raised eyebrowns and former Kaizer Chiefs star Junior Khanye felt the decision to take Tito off could affect the midfielder’s confidence.

“I think the coach made sacrifices in the first 20 minutes,” said Khanye on iDiski TV.

Orlando Pirates into another final

“None other than that tactical change from the coach though I don’t agree with what he did because psychologically that hurt Tito. I know he has won but to sacrifice a player that could have won the game for you playing to his strength I think it hurt Tito Maswanganyi.

“Yeah, the decision worked for the team and the coach; the coach benefitted from that.”

Can Orlando Pirates claim the MTN8?

The Buccaneers have won the competition for three consecutive seasons and are favourites against Stellenbosch FC in the final. A win could see them bag R10 million earlier in the season which could motivate them to chase CAF and league glory.

With the transfer window closing in a few weeks, it remains to be seen if the Sea Robbers will bring more players to the team. With 12 new signings, it looks less likely that Abdeslam Ouaddou will want to sign any new players.

Orlando Pirates could still sell Relebohile Mofokeng. The 20-year-old has been to several teams in the past but no official offers were made to the club especially from Europe. His former teammate Mohau Nkota has since left for Saudi.

Coming from the junior ranks, Nkota fired in his first season, just like Excellent Walaza back in 2007. Unlike Walaza, Nkota maintained his form throughout the season.