Orlando Pirates News Today: Mbatha snub questioned, Ouaddou picks World Cup side & more

Latest news about Orlando Pirates, including Abdeslam Ouaddou’s message of support to Morocco, the debate over Thalente Mbatha’s place in the Bafana Bafana midfield, and more.

Pirates coach Ouaddou sends message of support to Morocco

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou backed his home nation ahead of their FIFA World Cup opener against Brazil, telling the Atlas Lions to fight until the end.

The Moroccan, who guided Pirates to the PSL title this season, won 58 caps for his country between 2000 and 2009. Writing on Instagram, he turned his attention to the squad preparing to face Vinicius Jr and Brazil in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

“I would like to extend my sincere support and encouragement to our national team, its technical, medical, and administrative staff, as well as to everyone who contributes to the development and international recognition of Moroccan football,” Ouaddou wrote, as reported by ESPN.

The former Fulham defender referenced the run to the semifinals in Qatar under Oualid Regragui, where Morocco fell to France, and called on the current group to write a new chapter.

“Today, a new chapter begins. I have full confidence in your ability to rise to this new challenge with the same commitment, ambition, and pride in representing our country at the highest level,” he added.

Morocco played out an entertaining 1-1 draw with Brazil when Vinicius canceled out Ismael Saibari’s goal.

Khanye questions Mbatha snub for Bafana

While Ouaddou looked towards Morocco, attention back home turned to one of his own Pirates players.

Analyst Junior Khanye was visibly frustrated after Bafana Bafana’s defeat to Mexico, arguing that Thalente Mbatha should have started ahead of Sphephelo Sithole.

Sithole lined up in a packed Bafana midfield alongside Teboho Mokoena, Jayden Adams, Khuliso Mudau and Aubrey Modiba. The selection drew criticism after he was dispossessed inside the opening 10 minutes, allowing Julian Quinones to open the scoring from the edge of the box.

The night unravelled further when Sithole was sent off for a foul on Brian Gutiérrez as the last man, before Themba Zwane also saw red late on. Mexico ran out 2-0 winners to top Group A, leaving South Africa to finish with nine men.

“The weak point, the coach keeps starting this boy Yaya, why? He doesn’t have energy. There’s no energy,” he said, as quoted by iDiski Times.

“Just because he plays in Europe doesn’t mean he’s better than the likes of Mbatha. Sometimes you need luck in life. Simple. Play with Mbatha.”