Mbuthuma answers Orlando Pirates critics with goals and assists

Yanela Mbuthuma has responded to criticism in emphatic fashion, scoring twice and claiming two assists in Orlando Pirates’ past two matches as he looks to win over the club’s supporters.

The 24-year-old striker scored a brilliant brace in Pirates’ 4-0 victory over league newcomers Kruger United at Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday. His performance came after he had provided two assists in the Buccaneers’ 3-0 win against Sekhukhune United in the second leg of the MTN8 semi-finals last weekend.

Mbuthuma had faced sustained criticism earlier in the season after missing a number of chances. Some supporters used his social media pages to question his form and suggested coach Abdeslam Ouaddou should consider other options in attack.

However, the forward has now answered those doubts on the pitch and says his recent improvement has come from avoiding unnecessary pressure.

“I am happy with the way the fans have been showing me love of late. Let’s be honest, being a striker is not difficult. As a striker you must not put yourself under pressure and that’s what I did when I wasn’t scoring,” Mbuthuma told his club’s media department.

“Games are not the same…sometimes you get chances and sometimes you don’t. I am happy that I managed to convert the chances I got against Kruger.”

Mbuthuma joined Orlando Pirates from Richards Bay at the start of last season and is expected to feature in their next match, away to La Cure Sylvester SC of Mauritius in the first leg of the CAF Champions League first preliminary round on Sunday.

The match at the Cote d’Or National Sports Complex is scheduled to kick off at 1.30pm.

Pirates currently lead the Premiership standings on goal difference ahead of Mamelodi Sundowns. The Sea Robbers are determined to reach the Champions League group stage this season after a disappointing continental campaign last term, when they were knocked out by Congolese club FC Saint-Eloi Lupopo in the second preliminary round.

Attention will also turn to domestic action, with two Premiership matches scheduled for tonight. Gallants face Polokwane at Royal Bafokeng at 7.30pm, while Richards Bay host AmaZulu at Princess Magogo at the same time.

Saturday’s fixtures see Chippa play Milford at Nelson Mandela Bay at 3pm, followed by Sekhukhune United against Galaxy at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium at 5.30pm.

On Sunday, Arrows meet Mamelodi Sundowns at King Zwelithini Stadium at 3pm, before Chiefs take on Siwelele at Dobsonville at 5.30pm.

In the CAF Confederation Cup, Durban City will host Burundi side Rukinzo at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Sunday, with kick-off at 3pm.

An audio version of the story has been generated using AI.