Patrick Maswanganyi and Sipho Mbule of Orlando Pirates.
Image: Sydney Mahlangu/BackpagePix
Orlando Pirates’ comfortable Nedbank Cup passage against Tshakuma Tsha Madzivhandila offered more than just progression into the last 16.
It served as a pointed reminder that this Buccaneers squad is beginning to draw strength from its depth rather than relying on a settled core.
Much of that reflection centred on Patrick Maswanganyi and Sipho Mbule, two players who have not been regular fixtures since the turn of the year but whose introduction reshaped the contest.
Their influence was not merely about goals and assists, but about the authority and assurance they brought to Pirates’ play at a decisive moment.
Head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou framed their contribution as a validation of his long-held stance that no one in his squad is peripheral.
“I was very happy about the impact and commitment of the impact players, I knew that they would bring their best,” he said, speaking to the importance of readiness rather than reputation.
Maswanganyi’s role between the lines gave Pirates an extra layer of control, allowing them to connect midfield and attack with greater verticality.
Mbule, returning to action for the first time in 2026, offered calm decision-making and confidence in possession, qualities that have often defined his best work.
Ouaddou was clear that the changes were not reactive, but calculated.
“We brought them on because we needed the profile of players to find the 10s in between the lines with vertical passes and I think these two players have this ability,” he explained.
The fact that both players converted their opportunities only strengthened the coach’s conviction that Pirates’ ambitions this season will be sustained by more than just form players.
Beyond the immediate cup narrative, the reaction pointed towards the Betway Premiership title chase, where squad management and momentum will be decisive.
Ouaddou emphasised that the league race demands contribution across the board, not isolated brilliance.
“This gives us confidence for the future because I always say all the players are important more especially for the race for the (league) title,” he added.
For Pirates, this was less about Tshakuma and more about internal reassurance.
In Maswanganyi and Mbule, Ouaddou has options capable of altering games — a luxury that could define how far this season ultimately goes.