Orlando Pirates boss Abdeslam Ouaddou urges fans to back Yanela Mbuthuma

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has called on supporters to stand behind Yanela Mbuthuma, despite the striker’s failure to score so far this season.

The 24-year-old has faced criticism over his finishing during the opening matches of the Betway Premiership campaign. However, Ouaddou defended Mbuthuma after Pirates recorded a convincing victory over Chippa United at Kings Park Stadium on Sunday.

The coach believes Mbuthuma’s overall contribution is being overlooked because of the attention on his goalscoring record. While Ouaddou accepts the forward must become more effective in the final third, he said the striker remains an important part of the team.

“Mbuthuma in the game, properly if you analyse the game as a technician, this guy is doing well for the team really,” Ouaddou said.

“Of course now we are expecting this efficiency in the last third, but we cannot kill a fantastic player with a lot of future for Pirates, because the guy is in a moment that is a bit difficult for him, we have to support him.”

Mbuthuma’s form has come under greater scrutiny after Pirates strengthened their attacking options during the off-season.

The Buccaneers signed Norwegian striker Sebastian Pedersen, while Evidence Makgopa is also available as an option in the number-nine position. That competition for places has increased the focus on Mbuthuma’s performances, particularly in front of goal.

Ouaddou, though, is keen to ensure the pressure does not affect the striker’s confidence. He believes encouragement from the Pirates supporters could help Mbuthuma regain his composure and rediscover his scoring touch.

The coach was especially grateful for the reception Mbuthuma received from the club’s fans in Durban following the win over Chippa United.

“I thank, from my deepest heart the fans of Durban. You know, because just the flowers that they sent him today, it’s a very strong message,” he said.

The backing comes as Mbuthuma continues to work to establish himself as a reliable attacking option for the defending champions. Ouaddou values his movement, effort and wider contribution, but expects those qualities to be matched by greater efficiency when chances present themselves.

Pirates will hope the forward can respond to his manager’s support by converting his opportunities as their title defence continues. For Mbuthuma, the immediate task is to turn the work he is already doing for the team into goals, while maintaining his place amid competition from Pedersen and Makgopa.

The striker was also recently involved in the MTN8 2026 quarter-final match in Soweto, where he was challenged by Siyabonga Msomi of Durban City.