Orlando Pirates eye more silverware after Top 8 triumph

Orlando Pirates captain Nkosinathi Sibisi insists that their recent MTN8 triumph is just the beginning, as the Sea Robbers aim to carry their momentum into a long and challenging season.

The Buccaneers secured their fourth consecutive MTN8 title this past weekend, edging Stellenbosch FC 3-0 in extra time after the two sides remained deadlocked during normal time.

The victory not only added another trophy to Pirates’ cabinet but also set the tone for the team’s ambitions as they chase their first Betway Premiership title in 13 years.

With league action resuming this Tuesday, the Buccaneers face a demanding schedule. Their return to CAF Champions League football comes this weekend in the preliminary round first leg against Lesotho Premier League side Lioli FC. 

Interestingly, their Premiership clash against Magesi FC, originally scheduled for Wednesday, has been postponed to a later date, despite their Champions League fixture taking place at the nearby Free State Stadium, as the Lesotho side cannot host the match due to a lack of suitable facilities.

In hindsight, the delay could provide the team with a valuable chance to recover after the intensity of the MTN8 final leaving them much fresh ahead of their continental fixture.

Sibisi, who returned from injury and came off the bench to guide his side to the title, expressed his delight at the achievement. It was not only the club’s first trophy of the season but also his first as captain. The Bafana Bafana defender highlighted the importance of building on this success.

“Every final is special, especially playing in front of our crowd,” Sibisi told Supersport after the match.

“The stadium was packed and fans came in numbers to support us and the boys didn’t disappoint. I have mentioned throughout the competition that it’s ours to keep and it can only get better from here.

“And on to the next one, there is young talent in this group, we have to keep fighting for more, and there is still a lot to play for, and what a way to start with the MTN8.”

The victory also eases some of the pressure on new coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, who arrived at the club carrying high expectations following Pirates’ recent string of MTN8 triumphs and was immediately under scrutiny to deliver.

Heading into this weekend’s Champions League fixture, Ouaddou faces no less pressure, especially given the team’s shock exit in 2023 against the so-called smaller club, Jwaneng Galaxy, when Pirates after a 1-1 aggregate score, lost 5-4 on penalties.

Nevertheless, he can take confidence from his squad’s recent performances. After two opening league losses, Pirates have begun to show the cohesion and progress expected of a team with championship ambitions.

Sibisi praised the fresh energy brought by the new coach, emphasizing the positive impact on the squad’s young players and overall morale.

“Whenever there are changes, there will always be doubts,” Sibisi said.

“We managed to push and showcase what we are capable of under the coach. He has brought in some new dynamics with this young group and it’s been easy to work with, and the season is still long, and as for what’s next, we want more.”