Orlando Pirates youngster Mpho Padime urged to turn flair into first-team impact

Orlando Pirates DDC coach Roscoe Krieling believes Mpho Padime’s natural flair could become a major asset for the senior side, provided the winger learns when and how to use it.

The 19-year-old was promoted to the Pirates first team this season after an impressive DDC campaign in which he scored 10 goals and supplied nine assists.

Padime made his senior debut in August, featuring in Pirates’ 3-0 MTN8 win over Sekhukhune United. The winger is known for his dribbling ability and showboating, and has already offered glimpses of those qualities at senior level.

Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has previously stressed that such skills must serve a purpose, rather than being used simply to entertain. He wants Padime’s individual ability to contribute to the team’s overall performance.

Krieling said that was an area the DDC coaching staff had addressed with the youngster. The coach believes Padime has begun to find a more effective balance and will be able to make an impact for Pirates as he receives more opportunities.

“At the end of the day, Mpho needs to find his balance,” said Krieling.

“He was very flash at the start; we got him to use his flair to fight the right way. When he uses it the right way, he’s very effective.

“He’s also still trying to find a space in the first team which will take time. At the right time, he will expose himself. With more time, he can be effective in the first team.”