Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye believes Orlando Pirates players are struggling to cope with the pressure of leading the league.
Coming into their match against Bloemfontein Celtic, the Buccaneers sat at the top of the table on goal difference. However, their 1–1 draw at home leaves them just one point ahead of Mamelodi Sundowns, who still have a game in hand.
Khanye felt Pirates dominated the early stages of the match and that Lehlohonolo Seema’s side were fortunate not to concede in the opening half.
Orlando Pirates drop points
“Going into the game, I think Seema was lucky not to concede two goals in the first 35 minutes,” Khanye said on iDiski TV.
“Being equal on points with Sundowns plays a psychological factor in some of the players. Appollis had a chance but the goalkeeper saved them. Mbatha’s shot rebounded to Moremi, but I don’t know why the guy missed when the keeper was down. Also Rele missed the target.”
Khanye also questioned the leadership of Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou and his decisions in the second half.
“If you as a leader start panicking, your players will also start to panic,” he added.
The outspoken analyst also highlighted what he believes is the key difference between Pirates and Sundowns in the title race.
“I said the difference is the striker. This guy Brayan León came in and scored when it matters most. Iqraam Rayners scored last week, then he sat on the bench without any explanation.”
Orlando Pirates have nine Betway Premiership matches remaining but the title is no longer in their hands.