Boitumelo Radiopane proving his maturity as Orlando Pirates chase MTN8 final

Boitumelo Radiopane has given Orlando Pirates another reason to believe he can become a key figure in their pursuit of silverware after displaying the maturity that former Buccaneers striker Lehlohonolo Majoro believes could take his game to another level.

The 23-year-old made his first start of the season count on Tuesday night, scoring the opening goal and providing an assist as Pirates defeated Sekhukhune United at Orlando Stadium.

The performance came at a crucial moment for the Soweto giants, who have started the campaign strongly but have not always looked convincing in front of goal. Pirates had won three and drawn one of their opening matches before overcoming Sekhukhune in the Betway Premiership, yet questions remained over their attacking options.

Yanela Mbuthuma has struggled for rhythm, while Sebastien Pedersen is still searching for his first goal. With Evidence Makgopa sidelined through injury, Radiopane’s emergence could provide a timely solution.

More importantly, his display has strengthened his case for a starting role ahead of Saturday’s decisive MTN8 semi-final second leg against Sekhukhune.

Radiopane shows more than a striker’s instinct

Pirates head into Saturday’s 3pm showdown with a 1-0 advantage from last weekend’s first leg, meaning another positive result would send them into a fifth consecutive MTN8 final.

For Majoro, however, it was not simply Radiopane’s goal that stood out.

The former Pirates forward, speaking exclusively to IOL Sport, was particularly impressed by the youngster’s decision-making when he chose to assist Oswin Appollis rather than attempt to score himself.

“One thing that I took from that match, especially regarding his assist, is that he has maturity and team spirit,” Majoro said. “It showed that even though he’s not playing frequently, he was mentally ready and grabbed his opportunity.

“I know that when you are a striker in and around the box, the only thing you think about is taking a shot. It’s a matter of ‘let me score.’ But he had the presence of mind to know that Oswin was in a better scoring position. That showed maturity. He should be applauded for that, especially as he tries to become a regular.”

That selflessness could prove particularly valuable for a Pirates side seeking greater consistency in attack as they chase a domestic treble.

Majoro demands more from ‘Radioman’

Majoro, who is studying to become a strikers’ coach, believes Radiopane must now use his breakthrough performance as a platform rather than treat it as an achievement in itself.

“It’s very important for him to build on this momentum. In a team like Orlando Pirates, there’s always quality eager to get that opportunity,” Majoro reflected. “So, it’s very important for a player to grab their chance with both hands.

“As strikers, I know we are judged on goals, but we must be able to work on and off the ball. This makes the job easier for the entire group. As a former forward, I know we like to say that defending starts from the front, so that’s vital.”

Radiopane’s movement and willingness to contribute beyond scoring have already caught Majoro’s attention, with the former striker convinced there is more to come if the youngster maintains his hunger.

“I believe with the performance he showed against Sekhukhune, he can build on that. I know how much he’s yearning to play and showcase his talent. He’s getting into the right spaces and has the appetite to do well.”

Pirates need him at his best

With Makgopa unavailable, Mbuthuma out of form and Pedersen yet to open his account, Radiopane could enter Saturday’s second leg with greater responsibility on his shoulders.

But Majoro believes the youngster must resist the temptation to place unnecessary pressure on himself.

“I think he must not put himself under pressure, though. He must take it one game at a time and not look too far ahead,” Majoro said. “He just needs to keep believing that he’s going to score.”

For Pirates, the timing could hardly be better. A place in another MTN8 final is within reach, and Radiopane’s emergence offers Jose Riveiro’s side a potentially important attacking weapon for the final push.