Pressure Pile On Ouaddou As Pirates Suffer Second Defeat In A Row

Orlando Pirates suffered their second loss of the Betway Premiership season, losing 2-1 to Marumo Gallants at Dr Molemela Stadium on Tuesday evening.

The Buccaneers had lost their opening league game 1-0 against Sekhukhune United on Saturday, while Gallants had won 2-1 against Richards Bay.

The Pirates started the match on a high note, creating numerous chances in the first 20 minutes.

Patrick Maswanganyi scored the opening goal in the 15th minute, courtesy of a great assist from Deon Hotto.

The Buccaneers continued to dominate the game, with Tshepang Moremi and Oswin Appollis having opportunities to increase the lead.

However, Gallants’ goalkeeper Washington Arubi made two crucial double saves to deny them.

Just before halftime, Gallants equalized through a stunning goal by Zimbabwean attacker Daniel Msendami, which left Pirates’ goalkeeper Sipho Chaine with no chance.

The second half saw the Buccaneers struggle to find their footing, prompting coach Abdeslam Ouaddou to introduce Relebohile Mofokeng and Evidence Makgopa in the 56th minute to bolster the attack.

The introduction of the duo had an immediate impact, with Makgopa almost scoring in the 60th minute after a great cross from Mofokeng.

Unfortunately, Makgopa’s shot went wide. The Buccaneers had another chance in the 81st minute, but Sinoxolo Kwayiba’s shot was saved by Arubi.

Gallants sealed the win with a goal from Jaisen Clifford in the 90th minute, leaving the Pirates to ponder what could have been.

The Buccaneers will now focus on their semifinal match against Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 Cup this Saturday.

Meanwhile, Gallants will have a break this weekend, with only MTN8 games taking place.