Orlando Pirates urged to sharpen killer instinct as Shalulile and Mamelodi Sundowns make headlines

Orlando Pirates' coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has called for a more ruthless approach after a commanding lead against Chippa United turned into a conservative display. Ouaddou feels his players played to the gallery instead of showing the killer instinct needed to close out games.

Meanwhile, Chippa United’s new Belgian coach, Luc Eymael, is under pressure for immediate results — one of the talking points of Mzansi’s weekend footy.

Killer instinct needed, not 'sterile' football

Ouaddou noticed that after Pirates built a commanding 3-0 lead, the team’s performance shifted as the final whistle approached. He criticised what he deemed “sterile possession,” stressing the need for a more ruthless approach.

Every goal now could prove significant later in the season, making the conservative play puzzling. While the players enjoyed the fans’ backing, Ouaddou highlighted the delicate balance between entertaining the crowd and securing crucial points.

Pirates take a leaf from Downs’ playbook on loanees

Historically, Sundowns barred their loaned players from featuring against them. Pirates have adopted a similar approach.

Goodman Mosele, who scored against Pirates two seasons ago while on loan, is now explicitly prohibited from playing against his parent club in his loan deal with Chippa United. Last week against Orbit College, Pirates ensured compliance by resting Monnapule Saleng, another player on loan.

Chippa's chopping block is never far

Without swift improvements, Eymael could find himself on the sidelines, as club owner Siviwe ‘Chippa’ Mpengesi has little patience for poor results. Entering the international break, immediate wins are vital.

After five games, Chippa have a solitary point from a draw against Sundowns and four defeats, leaving them bottom of the table. Eymael admitted after his first match: “A lot of improvement is needed to try to get Chippa out of this position.”

Shalulile's historic goal came via controversial penalty

Peter Shalulile’s 130th PSL goal on Saturday came amid debate. The Sundowns striker surpassed Siyabonga Nomvete’s 129-goal record thanks to a penalty awarded by referee Michael Mosemeng.

Belgian defender Henri Stanic of Stellenbosch was adjudged to have fouled Shalulile just outside the penalty area — many argued it should have been a free-kick. Shalulile converted with precision, sending Sundowns fans into celebration, though controversy lingered on social media and among analysts.

Sundowns battle with Stellenbosch's 'tricky' play

After a gritty 1-0 win over Stellenbosch, Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso praised his team’s resilience.

After taking a fortunate lead from the penalty, Cardoso highlighted the challenge of managing his defence: “Stellenbosch have a very tricky way to play. They put a lot of players with speed over the defensive line.”

Despite a difficult pitch, Cardoso was impressed: “In the first half, I think we played the best football in the last month.

"Beautiful football on a difficult pitch, quite slippery and small. I could say it was fantastic football.”