Ouaddou Provides An Update About Mofokeng
Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has provided an update on the absence of the influential midfielder Relebohile Mofokeng in their victory over Orbit College at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday.
Mofokeng was excluded from the team as the Soweto Giants collected their second successive league and third win on the trot in all competitions, with Lebone Seema scoring a stunning goal in the second half against a newly-promoted side.
The 21-year-old, who has been a key player for the Buccaneers, appeared to have picked up an injury as they beat Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 semi-final triumph on Saturday.
“About Rele, unfortunately, I have to discuss with my medical department, they communicated with me that he cannot be part of the game,” Ouaddou said.
“But we still don’t have full feedback on the exam that he should do. I hope it’s nothing serious because we need him.”
Mofokeng has played a crucial role in Pirates’ attack this season, especially creating their equalizing goal against Sundowns at Lucas Moripe Stadium just before the Orbit College match.
Despite being yet to score this season, his absence was felt, and Ouaddou’s comments suggest that he is keenly aware of the player’s importance to the team.
Mofokeng has also been linked with a transfer move to Major League Soccer (MLS) side Minnesota United, where the youngster would unite with the South African footballer Bongokuhle Hlongwane.
In the same match against Orbit, Pirates’ experienced left back Deon Hotto was substituted for the first time this season, making way for youngster Nkosikhona Ndaba, who made his debut for the Buccaneers.
Ouaddou explained the decision behind substituting Hotto, highlighting the importance of managing his injuries.
“He (Hotto) is a kind of player that is very important for the club, and I’m talking about on and off the pitch,” Ouaddou added.
“We use him every time for 90 minutes, but sometimes, as a coach, you have to anticipate some injuries.
“At his age, we really need to manage him for the injuries; he’s very important for the club, and of course, we managed him in the second half to give him a breath because we don’t want to lose him.”
With Mofokeng’s status still uncertain and Hotto being managed to prevent injuries, Ouaddou’s priority is to ensure the well-being of his key players.
The Buccaneers will look to maintain their winning form in the upcoming matches, with their next game against Chippa United at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Sunday.
