Orlando Pirates rising defender Thabiso Sesane dedicated his man of the match award to his teammate Olisa Ndah as they won their third consecutive MTN8 trophy against Stellenbosch FC at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.

Pirates missed Ndah’s presence after he sustained a knee injury in their victory over Polokwane City at Orlando Stadium two weeks ago. He missed the Richards Bay victory and the MTN8 final celebration, with Sesane partnering with captain Innocent Maela and later Nkosinathi Sibisi at the back.

Sesane’s dedication to Ndah was understandable, as they have formed a core group at the back for the Soweto giants.

“I’m so happy,” Sesane said on SuperSport TV when he was awarded the trophy. “I dedicate this trophy to Olisa Ndah. Thank you so much.”

Despite the defensive changes due to Ndah’s unavailability, Sesane praised his coach Jose Riveiro for instilling belief in the team. “Of course, the defense changed. But we told ourselves that it doesn’t matter who is playing. We are going all out. But I also want to thank the coach for believing in us.”

Sesane has been a standout performer for Pirates this season, earning a call-up to the Bafana Bafana national team under coach Hugo Broos. Bafana will face Congo in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers at home on 11 October and away on 15 October.