Orlando Pirates’ talismanic winger Relebohile Mofokeng has opened up about the tactical roadblocks that derailed the Buccaneers’ title celebrations over the weekend. Needing a crucial victory to wrap up the Betway Premiership championship, the Sea Robbers were left incredibly frustrated after being held to a 0-0 draw by an ultra-defensive Durban City side at Orlando Stadium.
Despite the setback, the title race isn’t over. The Soweto giants still hold their destiny in their own hands: a victory against Orbit College FC this coming Saturday will officially crown them champions.
Low Blocks and Missed Chances
Speaking to SuperSport TV after the final whistle, the 21-year-old sensation—who leads Pirates’ scoring charts this season with 10 league goals—credited the visitors for executing a stubborn, disciplined defensive game plan.
“It was very difficult from the very beginning until the end. They came to defend and they did it very well. I think they were preparing for that the whole week. We also tried to create chances, but we didn’t convert them. We could have converted our chances, so we could be having a different conversation here.” — Relebohile Mofokeng
Ouaddou Slams “Overly Physical” Tactics
While Mofokeng focused on the tactical frustration, Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou did not hold back regarding the aggressive physical treatment his players endured on the pitch.
Expressing deep concern over the tackles leveled at his technical players, a protective Ouaddou called for greater player protection from match officials:
“There is a difference between playing with strength and physicality on the ball and trying to break players. This is not my mentality and never will be, firstly as an educator before being a coach. We need to protect the players. If someone cannot protect them in the middle of the pitch, then I have to protect them.”
Ouaddou also emphasized the broader social responsibility of the sport, adding: “We must not forget that there are children in the stands. We have to be an example. Football has to be a bridge, an example and a model for the next generation.”
The Buccaneers must now dust themselves off, find their clinical edge, and prepare for a massive, high-stakes trip to Mbombela Stadium on Saturday, where 90 minutes will separate them from domestic glory.
