Makhaula backs Orlando Pirates’ new generation to overcome Mamelodi Sundowns in MTN8 final

Orlando Pirates midfielder Makhehleni Makhaula has backed the club’s young players and new signings to handle the pressure of Saturday’s MTN8 final against Mamelodi Sundowns in Durban.

Veteran defender Thapelo Xoki has been leading the younger players during preparations at Rand Stadium in Johannesburg, as Pirates prepare for a major test against the reigning CAF Champions League and Fifa African-Asian-Pacific Cup champions.

Pirates have reached the final despite significant changes to their squad during the season. Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has been forced to rebuild after several regular players left or suffered injuries, giving opportunities to youngsters such as Mpho Padime and providing newcomers including Simphiwe Masilela with regular playing time.

The new-look side has responded positively. Pirates remain top of the Betway Premiership, have progressed to the final round of the CAF Champions League group-stage qualifiers and will now face Sundowns for the MTN8 trophy.

Ouaddou, however, has wanted more from his players in front of goal. The Moroccan coach has criticised occasions when his team has chosen to showboat rather than finish off opponents, even warning that he could stop training, pack his bags and leave if that attitude continued.

Some club legends have questioned whether such threats help to build trust and confidence within the squad. Makhaula believes the coach’s comments have been misunderstood.

“I don’t think it’s criticism or anything,” Makhaula said. “The coach is always saying to us: ‘You can do whatever you want as long as the score is 4-0, and whatever you do, you eliminate a player.’ It’s not criticism. The coach just wants results. When it’s 4-0 or 3-0, then you can do whatever you want with the ball.”

Makhaula has also praised the way the new arrivals have settled at Pirates, with the senior players helping them understand the club’s culture and Ouaddou’s approach.

“I think that the boys the club brought in have really matured,” he said. “They’ve adapted quickly. We thought they would struggle, but as senior players, we have helped them adapt.

“They’ve been playing in the PSL, so they know the league. It was easy for them to adapt; it was just up to us to teach them the culture of the club and how to fit into the philosophy.”

Sundowns represent the newcomers’ toughest challenge so far. Makhaula said they must remain composed when they step out at a packed Moses Mabhida Stadium.

“What I need them to do is calm themselves down,” said Makhaula, who has won three of Pirates’ last four successive MTN8 trophies. “They are going to face a tough opponent on a bigger stage, so it’s up to me to tell them how to behave on the field and embrace the pressure.

“It’s 11 v 11; there’s no difference. If you apply what the coach says on matchday, nothing will go wrong.”