Mandla Ncikazi says Orlando Pirates have built a foundation for next season

Orlando Pirates will have one last chance to wrap up their campaign on a positive note when they host Magesi FC in a Betway Premiership clash at Orlando Stadium on Wednesday evening (kick-off 7.30pm).

Despite falling short in their pursuit of the league title, the Nedbank Cup, and a CAF Champions League spot, the Buccaneers still have something to play for in their final league fixture. 

The Sea Robbers secured a 1-0 victory over Magesi in the reverse fixture held at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium back in December, and another win would not only cap off their campaign on a high note but also help narrow the final points deficit to Mamelodi Sundowns.

Last season, the Soweto giants finished second but were a staggering 23 points behind Sundowns. That gulf underscored just how much more Pirates needed to improve to truly challenge the defending champions.

In the 2024/25 campaign, they managed to mount a stronger challenge and kept pace with Sundowns deep into the season. However, the Pretoria outfit showcased their superior depth and consistency when it mattered most, once again claiming the league honours for the eighth season in a row.

Now facing Magesi in their season finale, the Buccaneers have the opportunity to reach 63 points — a significant improvement on last season’s 50, especially considering they played two fewer games, marking a season of upward trajectory despite some of the shortfalls.

Interim coach Mandla Ncikazi has been at the helm since Jose Riveiro’s departure and oversaw the team’s 1-1 draw against AmaZulu this past weekend.

He expressed satisfaction with his squad's performance, particularly the younger players who stepped up when needed, and also believes their improvements could be seen in the season to come.

“These young players are history makers,” Ncikazi commented.

“It’s for the first time this side finds themselves where they are, and I am certain we have created a good foundation for a good start next season. The targets that the club had at the beginning of the season — most of them have been met, but we are not perfect. We didn’t meet all of them.

“We must learn from what happened this season — where we can improve going forward, where we can reinforce our thoughts, where are our weaknesses and where can we improve on that. But for me, from where we were last season to where we are now, there is a lot of improvement.”

Ncikazi, who previously served in a similar role before Riveiro’s appointment, is believed to be among the candidates for the permanent head coach position. Though his future is uncertain, he remains committed to the club.

“I am wired differently,” Ncikazi continued.

“I am working for Pirates. If I am there, that is good enough. If I am not there, I am still good enough. 

“I am just happy with the contribution I am making for the club. As long as it remains like that, I will always be a servant of this club until told otherwise,” he concluded.