Ouaddou backs Mbuthuma to answer Pirates critics after MTN8 display

Abdeslam Ouaddou has backed Yanela Mbuthuma to silence his critics after the young striker helped Orlando Pirates reach the MTN8 final with a 3-0 second-leg victory over Sekhukhune United.

Mbuthuma, who has been booed by some Orlando Pirates supporters in recent weeks, provided two assists as the Buccaneers secured a convincing win at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday.

His contribution earned strong praise from head coach Ouaddou, who said the performance showed why the club must continue to support the forward rather than allow a difficult spell to undermine his confidence.

“Look! Me, it doesn’t make me happy now, this boy, we trust him,” Ouaddou said after the game.

Mbuthuma had faced criticism from sections of the home support before Saturday’s match, but played an important part in a result that booked Orlando Pirates’ place in the next stage of the competition.

Ouaddou said young players could struggle for form and confidence, but argued that patience and encouragement were essential if Mbuthuma was to fulfil his potential at the club.

“Sometimes in football you are in a difficult period. Like I said we have to give him confidence, trust him, the performance will come. And today he played a good game and we have to continue to help him.

“I’m sure he is the future of Pirates, and we cannot kill a boy like that. It’s what makes it so great when you feel that you’re being pushed by your own fans, they give you energy, power so all the time what I said, sometimes you have to be patient with the players and when they feel this love, support you’ll see what they can give you.

“So, I think it can be a lesson if we can have the support from our fans, I hope it will bring him something,” added Ouaddou.

The manager’s comments came after Orlando Pirates produced a decisive home performance against Sekhukhune United in the second leg of their MTN8 semi-final.

Mbuthuma’s two assists made him a key figure in the 3-0 win, while the result allowed the Buccaneers to progress after the tie was decided over two matches.

Ouaddou believes the support of Orlando Pirates supporters could play a significant role in helping Mbuthuma recover his confidence and demonstrate the ability the club believes he possesses.

The coach also made clear that he does not want the player’s difficult period to define his future, insisting that Mbuthuma remains an important part of the club’s plans.

With their MTN8 semi-final victory complete, Orlando Pirates will now switch their attention to domestic league action.

The Buccaneers are scheduled to face Kruger United in the Betway Premiership on Tuesday, with the match taking place at Mbombela Stadium.