Abdeslam Ouaddou explains Mbuthuma, Sibisi decision in Sekhukhune win

25.08.26 FT South African Betway Premiership

Orlando Pirates

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Sekhukhune United

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Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has explained the factors behind his decision to drop Yanela Mbuthuma and Nkosinathi Sibisi in their Betway Premiership win over Sekhukhune United on Tuesday night.

The defending champions beat Babina Noko 2-0 at the Orlando Amstel Arena, thanks to goals from Boitumelo Radiopane and Oswin Appollis in either half, moving three points clear at the summit of the table.

Pirates, however, had to overcome a stubborn Sekhukhune side without the services of striker Mbuthuma and captain Sibisi, who were both omitted from the matchday squad.

Ouaddou says the skipper was simply being managed in a bid to avoid injuries as the player was part of the Bafana Bafana squad at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while the under-fire centre-forward was a victim of squad rotation.

“I think when we are playing three games in a row like this, I already spoke about this case, we have international players, we have to be careful about the load. It's our job to anticipate possible injuries,” said the Pirates boss.

"So, of course, we rested Sibisi, and Mbuthuma I think he had a lot of game time. It was the moment as well to give him some rest and to see the other strikers as well, it's very important.

"It was the right moment to make the rotation. If I don't do it in this moment I don't know where I will be able to do it. But like I said, it was an opportunity for some players to show [their qualities] and we give a chance to everybody.

The Buccaneers return to action with the second leg of their MTN8 semi-final clash against Sekhukhune United at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday, 29 August, in what will be the final meeting of a rare triple-header.

Hlayisani Magoro

Editorfr, en

Football journalist from South Africa covering African football news, exclusive stories and key events while sharing insights with passionate fans of the game.

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