Ex-Buccaneer: Why Pirates’ Success Starts B…

Abdeslam Ouaddou during the Betway Premiership match between Orbit College FC and Orlando Pirates

Former Orlando Pirates striker James Mothibi has hailed the often-unseen figures working behind the scenes at the club, crediting them for helping lay the foundation for the Buccaneers’ recent success.

Speaking about the team’s recent progress, Mothibi said he had been impressed by the signings made by the Soweto giants and felt they were already proving their worth.

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“I can tell you today that I foresee things before they happen,” Mothibi said.

“You were the first person to interview me at Soccer Laduma and asked me about the signings Pirates made. I said they made good signings. The likes of Oswin Appollis, Tshepang Moremi, Thalente Mbatha and others. They did very well.”

While supporters often focus on players and coaches, Mothibi believes much of the club’s success stems from the work done behind the scenes.

“As you might know, there’s someone at the club who is doing a very brilliant job underground,” he said.

“Mxolisi Mngomezulu is playing a vital role in supporting the coaches, identifying talent and analysing games before the team plays against opponents.”

The former Buccaneer also praised the club’s analysis and technical support departments, saying their contribution is crucial to the team’s preparation.

“All the team that Mxolisi is working with, I need to give credit to them. They analyse games before our team plays against opponents.”

Mothibi further paid tribute to the late Zodwa Khoza and chairman Dr Irvin Khoza for the role they have played in building the club’s foundation.

“I need to give credit to Zodwa Khoza, may her soul rest in peace, for leaving a foundation. The foundation you see today is because of that lady.

“I also need to give credit to Dr Irvin Khoza for supporting the project he started. The project has grown year by year, and he is leaving a legacy in the hearts of Orlando Pirates supporters and ex-players.”

Mothibi believes unity within the squad has also been a key factor behind the team’s achievements.

“I was saying to one of the players that I’m so happy with what you guys are doing and the love you show. In the dressing room sometimes it will be sour, sometimes you’ll fight, but all of you are fighting for the right thing.

“You need to put the team on the map. You need to put the team number one.”

He concluded by praising the entire coaching and support staff, including assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi, goalkeeper coach Tyron Damons, as well as the physiotherapists and analysts.

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“We need to give credit to the coach and his staff, Mandla Ncikazi, Tyron Damons, the goalkeeper coach, the physios and the whole technical team.

“I’m so happy and privileged to support a team like Orlando Pirates, a team that gave me love when I was playing for them and a team that continues to give me courage and hope even today.”

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