Orlando Pirates celebrated a tense MTN8 semi-final victory over Mamelodi Sundowns, but not everyone was cheering for the team’s coach.
Former Kaizer Chiefs star Junior Khanye has voiced his frustration over a key tactical decision that he believes left one of the Pirates’ players feeling psychologically affected.
The Controversial Substitution
During the two-legged clash, the Buccaneers drew 2-2 on aggregate and ultimately triumphed in a penalty shootout.
The spotlight, however, fell on Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou after he made a bold move early in the game.
Patrick Maswanganyi, one of the team’s standout performers, was substituted just 38 minutes in, with Bandile Shandu coming on in his place.
Downs had taken an early lead, prompting Ouaddou to make the switch in an effort to tighten the defense.
The plan worked, as Pirates managed to equalise in the 73rd minute through Kamogelo Sebelebele, setting the stage for their eventual penalty shootout win.
Khanye Speaks Out
Despite the victory, Junior Khanye wasn’t impressed with the tactical choice.
“I think the Orlando Pirates coach made sacrifices in the first 20 minutes.
None other than that tactical change from the coach though I don’t agree with what he did because psychologically that hurt Tito,” Khanye told IDiski Times.
He added: “I know he has won, but to sacrifice a player that could have won the game for you by playing to his strength, I think it hurt Tito Maswanganyi.”
Fans and Analysts Weigh In
The debate now rages over whether Ouaddou’s early substitution was a masterstroke or a misstep.
Some argue it demonstrated tactical astuteness, while others side with Khanye, believing that Maswanganyi’s early removal could have negatively impacted his confidence.
