Yanela Mbuthuma will need to return to scoring for Orlando Pirates to continue chasing the Betway Premiership title.
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Orlando Pirates’ title charge lost momentum when they dropped two precious points during a 2-2 draw with Richards Bay at the uMhlathuze Sport Complex last week, but they can’t afford to drop their heads now.
Pirates should hope that Mamelodi Sundowns drop points in the last seven games, including against rivals Kaizer Chiefs, but they should still do their part – win the remaining six games, including against AmaZulu at Orlando Stadium on Saturday afternoon (6pm kick-off).
Given all that’s at stake, we look at five things that the Sea Robbers must do in order to put up a fight in the final games of the season.
Change Mbuthuma for Makgopa
Yanela Mbuthuma has been Pirates’ No. 9 in recent months, dividing the Ghosts’ opinions on whether he deserves his position ahead of Evidence Makgopa, especially following a lengthy goal drought.
With Pirates in need of goals to win their remaining games, Ouaddou will know that the time to experiment is over. He needs someone who can score goals consistently, or at least contribute effectively in the final third.
Makgopa might not be the most clinical striker, with six goals and three assists, but he has a strong work ethic and combines well with his teammates, especially those he also plays with at Bafana Bafana.
Give Mofokeng more freedom
Relebohile Mofokeng has been in fine form for Pirates in recent weeks, including scoring six goals in the last three games. His rise has some Ghosts dreaming that he could win both the Footballer of the Season award and help deliver the league title come May.
Granted, coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has established that he thrives in the No. 10 role, but he still needs the freedom to express himself across the pitch, instead of being restricted to one position.
His versatility will benefit the team. It will make him more unpredictable, while still allowing him to develop in the No. 10 role, which he is expected to play at the World Cup on June 11.
Impact the game from the bench
With matches coming thick and fast, Pirates, like the rest of their 15 league counterparts, are expected to tire. That’s why Ouaddou needs to manage the players’ workload carefully.
Not to undermine opponents, but against so-called smaller teams, Ouaddou should be smart with his starting line-up – start strong and control the game early.
This will also require him to influence matches from the bench, whether by rotating his squad or introducing key players at crucial moments in the game.
Distract players from World Cup thoughts
Pirates have many players in the Bafana Bafana set-up alongside Sundowns. Given that, it’s understandable if some players have one eye on the global showpiece in North America.
But Ouaddou can’t allow that to happen. Players must remain fully focused on Pirates. After all, the only way they’ll secure selection for Bafana is by performing well for their club.
The World Cup is every footballer’s dream, but it requires players who arrive in form and maintain momentum on the biggest stage.
Strengthen belief and hope
Pirates have been runners-up to Sundowns in the title race over the last three seasons. But they can’t afford to give up and assume the same outcome this season.
They need to stay positive and believe that football is unpredictable, and Sundowns could still drop points due to pressure or tough opposition.
With that in mind, Pirates must do their part: win games and keep clean sheets. They need to approach every match with the belief that they can secure the crucial points.