Makhaula – The Driving Force Behind Pirates' Fortunes

Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has lauded the impact of midfielder Makhehleni Makhaula, saying he’s the fuel that drives the team at the moment.

Pirates are on a high. They beat arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs 1-0 – thanks to Patrick Maswanganyi’s Panenka – to win the Soweto derby on Saturday afternoon.

But while the goal lifted the roof of FNB Stadium and sent the Sea Robbers into a frenzy, Makhaula was the best player on the pitch.

Makhaula's Influence in Midfield

The 35-year-old showed that he’s matured like fine wine as he continued to hold the hand of his teammates and the youngsters with his defensive job.

Makhaula has stood the test of time. He arrived at Pirates after being on the wrong side of 30. As such, he didn’t feel that he'd cut the mustard at his childhood club.

His change in fortunes – which has been inspired by the coaching prowess of Riveiro – has reflected the club’s exploits this season.

“I think his performance speaks about the moment that he’s going through. It’s talking volumes about [the phase of his career],” Riveiro said.

“He’s a proper professional. He’s working so hard and pushing himself, and everybody around to have this mentality that is taking us to the stage that we are right now.”

Pirates Chasing a Historic Quadruple

Yes, Pirates are where they want to be this season. They are challenging for an unprecedented quadruple.

They’ve already won the MTN8 – their third in a row – and are on course to win the Betway Premiership, Caf Champions League and Nedbank Cup.

Pirates will continue with the Champions League next month. They’ll face Baroka in the Nedbank Cup last 16 at home, Orlando Stadium, on Sunday, February 15. Kick-off is scheduled for 3pm.

Upcoming Fixtures and Title Aspirations

Pirates will turn their focus to the league on Wednesday night (7.30pm kick-off) when they face a high-flying Sekhukhune United at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium.

The Sea Robbers will want to win that clash and close the gap on log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, who lead them by six points.

Riveiro will hope that attacker Relebohile Mofokeng will continue with his rich vein of form, having won the penalty that secured the victory against Chiefs.

Mofokeng’s partner-in-crime Mohau Nkota, also 20 years of age, had a tough time in the derby. As such, Riveiro substituted him for Kabelo Dlamini at half-time.

Riveiro, though, defended Nkota and his substitution, saying it was important that they had another extra pass in the final third.

Tactical Adjustments and Team Performance

“I think Mohau was doing a good job with Thatayaone Ditlhokwe, trying to find himself in one versus one situation,” Riveiro said.

“But I think ‘TT’ was also doing a good job with Mohau. He kept him under control. We had a problem with the build-up in trying to deal with the high line of Kaizer Chiefs.

“If you remember in the first half we were playing … long balls. So, we were missing one last pass inside the structure. So, we changed to having one player in the central corridor.”

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