Manqoba Mngqithi confident Golden Arrows can bounce back against Orlando Pirates

Golden Arrows coach Manqoba Mngqithi is banking on the psychological edge of facing a “big team” to lift his players after a demoralising second consecutive league defeat.

Abafana Bes’thende were soundly beaten 3-0 at home by Stellenbosch FC at the Mpumalanga Stadium on Saturday — a result that kept them dangling just above the relegation zone. They now face the formidable task of hosting an in-form Orlando Pirates side who arrive in Durban brimming with confidence after a spirited 2-1 Soweto Derby victory over Kaizer Chiefs.

Arrows will welcome Pirates to the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Tuesday at 7.30pm. Despite the contrasting form, Mngqithi remains optimistic ahead of the clash.

“First we need to look at Pirates, look at their strengths and their last three, four matches, see how we can capitalise in some of their weaknesses,” Mngqithi said, after the match against Stellies.

“We need to also do the best we can in dealing with the areas where they are strong. And I’m always confident that in games where you don’t need intrinsic motivation, this team can always come out and surprise you because they also want it.

“It’s just unfortunate that when you win those matches (against the so-called big teams), and you have given points away in these matches (against the small teams), it feels bad. But I’m very confident that in that Pirates game, we can still do very well.”

That belief will need to be backed up by performance. Arrows have lacked consistency all season — six wins, eight draws and eight defeats from 22 games leaves them 14th on the log, with 26 points and a concerning goal difference of -6. 

In their last five matches, Arrows have only managed one win. Their recent home form reflects the broader struggle: just three wins in 11 games played in front of their own fans.

By contrast, Pirates have momentum and numbers on their side. Sitting second with 46 points from 22 matches, the Buccaneers have been efficient both in front of goal and at the back — 32 goals scored, only 15 conceded. 

Their recent league form includes one win, two draws, and two defeats, but their come-from-behind victory over Chiefs at FNB Stadium has lifted spirits in the camp and reaffirmed their title credentials.

Jose Riveiro’s side have found a rhythm in attack, and their defensive organisation remains among the best in the league. For Arrows, the challenge will be to contain that attacking trio while trying to rediscover their own scoring touch.

Arrows and Pirates will meet again in the reverse fixture at Orlando Stadium a week later, but for Mngqithi and his side, Tuesday’s clash is not just about points — it’s about pride, survival, and proving they still have bite.

Against the odds and with confidence shaken, Arrows must now find inspiration against one of the league’s most ruthless outfits. And if Mngqithi’s belief is anything to go by, they might just rise to the occasion.