Orlando Pirates interim head coach Mandla Ncikazi has firmly rejected claims that the Buccaneers are merely coasting toward the end of the season, emphasizing that his team remains highly motivated and focused on their remaining fixtures.
Pirates recently sealed their qualification for next season’s CAF Champions League, following a hard-fought 1-0 victory over SuperSport United in the Betway Premiership.
The decisive goal came from rising star Mohau Nkota, whose clinical finish ensured Pirates secured their place among Africa’s elite clubs for the upcoming continental campaign.
Read: Orlando Pirates Edge SuperSport United as Mohau Nkota Strikes Crucial Winner
The result also confirmed Pirates’ second-place finish in the league, solidifying their return to the Champions League and marking a significant achievement in their season.
With an impressive record 19th win already under their belt, some have suggested that the team might now be easing off in their final matches. However, Ncikazi insists that such assumptions couldn’t be further from the truth.
“Contrary to what people are saying that we have nothing to play for, I think there is so much to play for, one, like you said, records are important in the club,” Ncikazi asserted.
“These players must be part of the history of having done what has happened in game number 19.
“There are still individual awards, the Goalkeeper of the Season might come out from our club, a Defender of the Season [Nkosinathi] Sibisi has a big opportunity and [Deon] Hotto as well.
“Tshego [Tshegofatso Masaba] is chasing the top goalscorer, there is still a possibility. Nothing is confirmed until the end. I think for me, there is still a lot to play for. No game has no impact, especially if you play for a team like Pirates.”
As they gear up for their remaining fixtures, Pirates will be aiming to build on their winning mentality, ensuring they head into their CAF Champions League return brimming with confidence and competitive edge.
The Buccaneers will face AmaZulu (24 May) and Magesi (28 May) in their final two Betway Premiership fixtures of the campaign.