Deprecated: str_replace(): Passing null to parameter #3 ($subject) of type array|string is deprecated in /home/zbyiujsu/public_html/wp-content/plugins/jnews-social-share/class.jnews-initial-counter.php on line 40
Deprecated: str_replace(): Passing null to parameter #3 ($subject) of type array|string is deprecated in /home/zbyiujsu/public_html/wp-content/plugins/jnews-social-share/class.jnews-initial-counter.php on line 40
Deprecated: str_replace(): Passing null to parameter #3 ($subject) of type array|string is deprecated in /home/zbyiujsu/public_html/wp-content/plugins/jnews-social-share/class.jnews-initial-counter.php on line 40
Deprecated: str_replace(): Passing null to parameter #3 ($subject) of type array|string is deprecated in /home/zbyiujsu/public_html/wp-content/plugins/jnews-social-share/class.jnews-initial-counter.php on line 40
Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro praised his team’s mental toughness after they overcame an injury to centreback Nkosinathi Sibisi in the first minute of Saturday’s MTN8 final to beat AmaZulu 1-0.
Monnapule Saleng’s superb free-kick from a tight angle settled the final at Moses Mabhida Stadium, giving Bucs their second MTN8 trophy in three years and their second piece of silverware in eight years.
Riveiro admitted that Pirates only controlled the first half, but he was pleased that his team did not lose shape after Sibisi was injured moments after kickoff and replaced by Paseka Mako in the fifth minute.
“The way we started the game was really tough when we had to change Sibisi after the first minute,” Bucs’ coach said.
“That’s the key for me if you look at the way the team reacted. We didn’t lose focus at all and we didn’t even have to change anything about the plan because the guys were willing to execute the plan.
“That’s maybe the strength of this team. We’re united and don’t panic when we don’t get a good result, like what happened last weekend [in the 1-0 league Soweto derby defeat against Kaizer Chiefs]. We’re mentally strong and improving.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Orlando Pirates Crowned MTN8 Champions After Saleng’s Stunning Goal
“We knew we were going to have some problems with long balls, especially collecting the second ball. I think we did a good job in that regard, especially at the beginning of the game.
THAT MAN AGAIN!
Saleng puts the Buccaneers ahead 😤
📺 Stream #MTN8Final live: https://t.co/Tg69y0m5GD pic.twitter.com/Vn6r2RCORK
— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) November 5, 2022
“A beautiful goal made the difference to the final score. In the second half, it’s a typical final. You get the lead and you don’t want to lose the lead. The opponent wanted to do something special, they added more offensive players.
“We still played a bit but that’s a situation we need to improve in future to better dominate scenarios like these. But I’m a lucky coach if you look at the way these guys are performing. I’m very proud.”
The Buccanners take the first silverware of the season with a 1 – 0 win over AmaZulu 👏 pic.twitter.com/epErL04jcM
— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) November 5, 2022