Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has explained the absence of midfielder Sinoxolo Kwayiba, who is yet to make a competitive start for Ezimnyama Ngenkani.
The Soweto giants collected their first win of the season when they defeated Stellenbosch FC 1-0 at Orlando Stadium on Wednesday evening.
The match-winning goal was provided by new signing Kamogelo Sebelebele, who also scored over the weekend to help Pirates salvage a 1-1 draw against Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8.
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For all the delight over Sebelebele, questions have been raised about the rest of Pirates' new signing. Sipho Mbule, Oswin Appollis, Sihle Nduli, and Lebone Seema have all featured prominently for the Sea Robbers' first four matches.
In fact, all but three of the new signings have yet to start. Masindi Nemtajela, Nkosikhona Ndaba and Kwayiba are yet to break into the starting eleven for the black and gold in a competitive fixture.
The latter was signed from Chippa United as one of the more high-profile arrivals for the new season. He had already represented Bafana Bafana, scoring in a 2-0 win over Mozambique ahead of his arrival at Pirates. While appearing for the Buccaneers during their friendly matches, the 25-year-old has yet to feature for Pirates.
Speaking to media at the post-match press conference, after the 1-0 win over Stellenbosch, Ouaddou set a mandate for the former Chippa United man.
"Kwayiba is doing a fantastic job every day," Ouaddou said, responding to a question about Kwayiba's absence.
"I am very happy about his commitment. His professionalism. Like I said about the other players, his time will come, and he has to be ready to give his best for the club and for the team, like the many players you have seen today.
"They came, there have been lots of questions about them in the previous conferences, but they are here, and they have to perform.
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Pirates have a big match up next, facing Mamelodi Sundowns in the second leg of the MTN8 semi-final at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday (15:00).
Photo: Philip Maeta/Gallo Images
