Did Pirates miss Mbokazi in the draw with Sekhukhune? Ouaddou responds

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Did Pirates miss Mbokazi in the draw with Sekhukhune? Ouaddou responds

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has commented on the impact of missing defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi.

Pirates started life without Mbokazi on Saturday when they were frustrated by Sekhukhune United, who ensured a share of the spoils, following a goalless draw at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane.

Ouaddou fielded Nkosinathi Sibisi and Lebone Seema in central defence in the absence of Mbokazi and the two still had a good game with Babina Noko rarely threatening them.

Mbekezeli Mbokazi Orlando Pirates 1

The Pirates coach was asked if his team missed the 20-year-old, who has since joined MLS side Chicago Fire, and he was forthright in his response.

How will Pirates cope without Mbokazi?

“A lot of questions about the departure of Mbokazi but we have a fantastic group, good defenders and the guys did well today [Saturday],” Ouaddou told the media.

“Our philosophy is not only to count on one player. When we are strong defensively and manage to keep clean sheets, it is because of the collective not only with one player.

“Of course, he [Mbokazi] was important but I am sure the guys will do a fantastic job and they proved it today,” the Moroccan coach further said.

Bucs have several options in defence

The draw against Sekhukhune was the ninth clean sheet in the last 11 league games for Pirates who maintained their unbeaten run during that period in which they have won nine and drawn two.

Nkosinathi Sibisi Orlando Pirates
Image – Pirates

Mbokazi arrived in Chicago this week to begin a new chapter in his career following his $3 million (R48 million) transfer to the MLS club.

Pirates reacted to Mbokazi’s departure by signing defenders Daniel Msendami and Mpho Chabatsane, both from Marumo Gallants, while they have Sibisi, Seema, Thabiso Sesane, Olisa Ndah and Thapelo Xoki as their options in central defence. 

<!-- Author Start -->Joel Oliver<!-- Author End -->

Joel Oliver

Author

Joel Oliver is a seasoned multimedia sports journalist with a rich background in covering diverse football stories and events in South Africa and beyond.
His extensive coverage spans subjects touching on the PSL, with a focus on the Big Three (Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs & Mamelodi Sundowns), Bafana Bafana and Banyana Banyana.

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