Ouaddou justifies benching Mbokazi and lauds Mofokeng after his exploits

Orlando Pirates secured a 3-1 win over Golden Arrows in the Premier Soccer League game that was staged at the King Zwelithini Stadium on Wednesday night.

It was a vital victory that took them second on the table with 22 points, the same as Kaizer Chiefs, who slipped to third owing to their inferior goal difference. Both the Soweto giants are just three points behind the defending champions, Mamelodi Sundowns, who have played more games.

Defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi has been a permanent figure at the heart of Bucs' defence, but he was benched on Wednesday with Lebone Seema and captain Nkosinathi Sibisi starting. Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has since justified his decision.

We know the load Mbokazi has been exposed to

“We have to take into consideration the physical integrity of the players and manage them. But at the same time, it is not easy for a coach because you have to keep the competitiveness in the team. You cannot change the team too much and lose the competitiveness,” he told the media.

“We know the load that Mbokazi has been exposed to since the beginning of the season, with the national team and with us as well.

“We thought, my staff, the performance department, and I, that we needed to give him a little bit of rest and bring him towards the end of the match, and he did well,” the former Morocco international added.

Mofokeng lauded after his impactful return

Bafana Bafana international Relebohile Mofokeng made a return to the team after a four-match absence brought about by his injury. He returned with an assist for the Buccaneers, and Ouaddou was full of praise for the versatile attacker.

“You know he is important for the club, how we love that player. It’s fantastic to see him back in our team. Especially when you give him 15 minutes, he gives all his best. You see he gave the assist. It’s a special player for us,” he concluded.

The next outing for Pirates will be on Saturday when they will be playing Richards Bay in the semi-final of the annual competition.