Orlando Pirates coach backs Yanela Mbuthuma amid goal drought

Yanela Mbuthuma of Orlando Pirates challenged by Siyabonga Msomi of Durban City during the MTN8 2026 quarter-final match in Soweto recently.

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has urged supporters to back Yanela Mbuthuma, insisting the striker’s contribution goes beyond the goals he has yet to provide this season.

Mbuthuma has come under scrutiny for his finishing during the opening matches of the Betway Premiership campaign, but Ouaddou defended the 24-year-old after Pirates’ convincing victory over Chippa United at Kings Park Stadium on Sunday.

The Pirates coach believes those properly analysing Mbuthuma’s performances will recognise the work he is doing for the team, even though he accepts the striker needs to become more clinical in the final third.

“Mbuthuma in the game, properly if you analyse the game as a technician, this guy is doing well for the team really,” Ouaddou said.

“Of course now we are expecting this efficiency in the last third, but we cannot kill a fantastic player with a lot of future for Pirates, because the guy is in a moment that is a bit difficult for him, we have to support him.”

Ouaddou’s comments come at a time when Mbuthuma’s position is attracting increased scrutiny, particularly following Pirates’ decision to strengthen their attacking options.

The Buccaneers added Norwegian striker Sebastian Pedersen during the off-season, while Evidence Makgopa remains another option for the number-nine position.

Despite the competition, Ouaddou appears determined not to allow the pressure surrounding Mbuthuma to undermine his confidence.

Instead, he believes support from the Pirates faithful can play an important role in helping the striker rediscover his confidence in front of goal.

The coach was particularly appreciative of the reception Mbuthuma received from the supporters in Durban.

“I thank, from my deepest heart the fans of Durban. You know, because just the flowers that they sent him today, it’s a very strong message,” he said.

Ouaddou values his overall contribution, but he also expects greater efficiency when opportunities arrive.

After Pirates’ strong response against Chippa, the striker will now hope to repay his coach’s faith by turning his work rate and movement into goals as the defending champions continue their title defence.