Mokobodi says team-first approach inspired Pirates’ Soweto Derby triumph

Orlando Pirates midfielder Thapelo Mokobodi said advice from head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou influenced the decisive assist that helped secure victory over Kaizer Chiefs in the Soweto Derby.

Mokobodi was named Man of the Match after playing a central role in Pirates’ attacking display during the high-stakes encounter. Yanela Mbuthuma put the Sea Robbers ahead in the 24th minute, but Kaizer Chiefs responded six minutes later when Pule Mmodi equalised for Amakhosi.

The decisive moment came in the 55th minute, when Mokobodi created the winning goal for Tshepang Moremi. His precise pass allowed Moremi to finish and gave Orlando Pirates three important points.

Speaking to SuperSport TV after the match, Mokobodi explained that he had followed a message repeatedly delivered by Ouaddou.

“Look, it’s something the coach has been telling us: when your teammate is in a better position, just give him a gift, you know, a blessing so that he can score,” Mokobodi said.

“If he scores, we all win together, so I don’t need to be selfish; I just have to pass it.”

The midfielder has emerged as a key figure for Orlando Pirates this season, establishing himself as an influential presence at the heart of the club’s midfield.

The derby result moved Pirates to 25 points from nine league matches. They remain second in the Betway Premiership log table, one point behind Mamelodi Sundowns.

The victory also strengthens the Buccaneers’ position near the top of the league, although their next match will come in cup competition rather than the Betway Premiership.

Orlando Pirates will host Sekhukhune United in the Carling Knockout Cup quarter-finals on Friday. The match is scheduled to begin at 19:00, with a place in the semi-finals at stake.