Despite losing the MTN8 tournament final 2-0 to Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Waddu stated that his team still has many goals for this season.
The return of Bafana Bafana midfielder Talente Mbathi to the Orlando Pirates squad in the MTN8 final was one of the positive aspects that coach Abdeslam Waddu plans to highlight after the defeat. The Pirates team failed to secure their fifth consecutive MTN8 title at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.
However, Waddu believes that this loss can serve as a valuable lesson as the team shifts its focus to the remaining four competitions. Orlando Pirates continues to participate in the Betway Premiership, Nedbank Cup, Carling Knockout, and CAF Champions League, with defending the league championship remaining their main priority.
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"We are certainly disappointed that we did not win this fifth MTN cup, especially for us, for the club, and for our fans. But in this game, we gained a lot of knowledge because I have high-quality players in my team," noted Waddu.
The coach also emphasized that the return of midfielder Talente Mbathi, who recovered from injury, is one of the positive moments of the final. He added: "I am very happy about Mbathi's game after he got injured. He returned, so he is someone who can bring more to our team."
Despite the disappointment, Waddu was inspired by his players' efforts and the quality of the match against the local rivals, insisting that Pirates will bounce back quickly. "But the guys gave their best. Congratulations to Mamelodi Sundowns. I think the fans watched a good football match with tension, of course, considering the rivalry. And we will definitely come back and be ready for the next challenge," he said.
The Pirates team does not have time to dwell on the defeat; their next match is scheduled for Tuesday when they host TS Galaxy at Orlando Amstel Arena at 7:30 PM as part of the league. This match gives Waddu an immediate opportunity to boost player morale and return to victories amid the increased demands of a tight schedule.
With domestic cup tournaments and continental football ahead, the Pirates coach hopes that the lessons learned in Durban will strengthen his squad rather than undermine their momentum. For the Buccaneers, the MTN8 disappointment is a setback, but Waddu's message is clear: there is much more to be won, and their response will depend on the results they achieve going forward.