Pirates, TS Galaxy and Marumo Gallants Coaches Deliver Brutal Verdict on Their Players

Three Betway Premiership coaches have criticised their players following Tuesday night's Carling Knockout Cup last-16 matches, highlighting poor decision-making, defensive errors and a lack of composure as major concerns.

Orlando Pirates, TS Galaxy and Marumo Gallants experienced contrasting results, but their coaches agreed that improvements are needed as the season progresses.

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou was unhappy despite his team's convincing 3-0 victory over Milford FC at Orlando Amstel Arena. Goals from Thapelo Moremi, who scored twice, and Thapelo Mokobodi secured Pirates' place in the quarter-finals.

However, Ouaddou was frustrated by his players' inability to make better decisions in the final third. He questioned their tendency to pursue individual glory instead of passing to teammates in stronger scoring positions.

The Moroccan tactician warned that such selfishness could undermine Pirates' ambitions of competing for major honours, including the Betway Premiership and CAF Champions League. He also stressed that players given opportunities must prove their worth rather than take their positions for granted.

Meanwhile, TS Galaxy interim coach Esau Mtsweni expressed disappointment after his team suffered a 3-0 defeat against Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium. Wandile Duba scored a hat-trick to inspire Amakhosi, exposing Galaxy's defensive weaknesses.

Mtsweni criticised his players for their lack of intensity, negative passing and failure to respond effectively. He was particularly frustrated that defensive problems resurfaced despite preparations focused on improving the team's organisation. He challenged his squad to take responsibility and improve ahead of their upcoming league fixture against Polokwane City.

Marumo Gallants coach Ronnie Kanalelo also had reasons to be disappointed after his side lost 1-0 to Mamelodi Sundowns at Loftus Versfeld. Kanalelo pointed to poor decision-making in decisive moments, particularly in one-on-one situations, where greater composure could have made a difference.

With domestic cup and league commitments continuing, all three teams face pressure to improve their performances. Pirates must turn their coach's criticism into motivation ahead of Saturday's Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs, while Galaxy and Gallants will seek stronger responses in their upcoming league matches.

Source

https://x.com/Soccer_Laduma/status/2115438496554840131?a=s1oaEK5NwYIrOsu4ITk&s=19