Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has explained why Ghampani Lungu, and not Oswin Appollis, took the penalty that could have changed the MTN8 final against Mamelodi Sundowns. Lungu’s effort was saved by Ronwen Williams, and Pirates went on to lose 2-0 in Durban.
The Moment That Sparked Debate
Pirates were awarded a spot kick after Teboho Mokoena gave away a penalty, with Sundowns leading 1-0. A goal would have levelled the match and shifted the momentum. Instead, Williams denied the Zambian international, and fans were quick to ask why Appollis, who regularly took penalties last season and has scored important spot kicks for club and country, was not given the ball.
Ouaddou’s Explanation
After the match, Ouaddou said Lungu is one of the club’s designated penalty takers and was first in the pecking order, with Appollis next in line. His explanation was that the decision followed an established order rather than a last-minute choice on the pitch.
Respect for Sundowns, Focus on the Season Ahead
Despite the disappointment, Ouaddou congratulated Sundowns and said football demands fair play. He promised that Pirates would keep working, that supporters will see “a fantastic season”, and that the team will try to keep their league title.
Should Lungu have taken the penalty, or was Appollis the better option? Tell us in the comments.
