Sihle Nduli Reveals What Went Wrong for Orlando Pirates in Shock Defeat to Marumo Gallants

Orlando Pirates midfielder Sihle Nduli has offered a frank assessment of the Buccaneers’ shock 2-1 loss to Marumo Gallants, a result that leaves the Soweto giants as the first team to suffer back-to-back defeats in the new Betway Premiership season.

Pirates’ disappointing start continued at Dr Molemela Stadium on Tuesday night, where an added-time goal from Jaisen Clifford sealed victory for Gallants. Daniel Msendami opened the scoring for the hosts before Patrick Maswanganyi equalised, but Pirates were unable to hold on, conceding in the dying moments.

The result comes just days after a 1-0 defeat to Sekhukhune United, meaning the Buccaneers have now lost both of their opening league fixtures.

Nduli did not hold back when speaking to the club’s media after the match. “I think we started the game well. We were able to create many scoring chances, but we only scored one,” he said. “I think we should have finished the game in the first half and made things easy for ourselves. I think as the gents we ruined it ourselves. We gave away the three points because we created everything, then we conceded goals even small children wouldn’t concede.”

The defeat leaves Pirates sitting 14th in the standings, with pressure mounting ahead of a crucial MTN8 semi-final first leg against Mamelodi Sundowns at Orlando Stadium on Saturday. The Buccaneers will need a strong response to avoid further setbacks, with their hopes of early silverware now on the line.

Nduli’s comments reflect a squad aware of its shortcomings but also determined to address them quickly, knowing that another poor result could deepen their early-season struggles.