Radiopane gives Orlando Pirates fresh attacking hope before MTN8 semi-final

Boitumelo Radiopane has strengthened his case to lead Orlando Pirates’ attack after scoring once and setting up another goal in a 2-0 Betway Premiership victory over Sekhukhune United on Tuesday.

The 23-year-old was handed his first start of the season and made an immediate impact, opening the scoring before creating an opportunity for Oswin as Pirates extended their excellent start to the campaign.

The result came just days before the two sides meet again in the MTN8 semi-final second leg at home on Saturday afternoon, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00. Pirates won the first leg 1-0 last Saturday and now have the opportunity to reach a fifth successive final in the competition.

Their advantage includes a crucial away goal, but they will still need to finish the tie strongly against Sekhukhune United, known as Babina Noko, if they are to secure their place in another final.

Pirates had won three matches and drawn one before Tuesday’s league encounter, yet their attack had not been as productive as expected. Yanela Mbuthuma has struggled to find his rhythm, while Sebastien Pedersen is still waiting for his first goal.

Radiopane’s performance therefore arrived at an important moment for the club. His display suggested he could offer a solution to Pirates’ search for greater cutting edge as they pursue domestic silverware, beginning with the MTN8.

Former Orlando Pirates striker and MTN8 ambassador Lehlohonolo Majoro believes Radiopane’s unselfish contribution showed a level of maturity that could help him establish himself in the first team.

Speaking exclusively to IOL Sport on Thursday, Majoro said: “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.”

Majoro, who is studying to become a strikers’ coach, urged Radiopane to use the performance as a platform rather than treating it as an arrival point. He said the forward needed to develop into a more complete player and maintain his momentum.

“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.

“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.”

Radiopane’s prospects have improved further because Evidence Makgopa is injured, Mbuthuma is struggling for form and Pedersen has yet to settle. Those circumstances could give him increased responsibility in the coming matches, including Saturday’s decisive MTN8 meeting.

However, Majoro cautioned the young striker against allowing a single impressive outing to create unnecessary pressure.

“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.”

The second leg will determine whether Orlando Pirates can continue their run of reaching every MTN8 final since their previous appearance, while also keeping alive their hopes of a domestic treble this season.