By Michael Madyira
Orlando Pirates finished their pre-season training camp in Spain with a 3-2 loss to Al Sadd at Marbella Football Center on Friday.
During the tour, the Buccaneers got two draws, one victory, and one defeat as they now return home to prepare for the 2024/25 season.
On Friday, Jose Riveiro’s team faced an early setback when Hashim Ali scored for the Qatari side in the third minute. However, Tshegofatso Mabasa quickly responded with two goals in five minutes.
Gonzalo Plata equalised for Al Sadd just before halftime and scored again eight minutes into the second half, giving Al Sadd the lead.
Melusi Buthelezi started as the goalkeeper for Pirates, with Nkosinathi Sibisi and Thabiso Sesane as central defenders.
Teenage right winger Mohau Nkota and Deon Hotto played on the wings, with Mabasa leading the attack.
The match showed the importance of concentration from the start, as Ali’s early goal came from a defensive mistake.
Mabasa’s quick brace brought Pirates back into the game, but Plata’s two goals, including a deflected shot, secured the win for Al Sadd.
In the second half, Pirates made several substitutions, bringing in captain Innocent Maela, Olisa Ndah, Gilberto, Ndabayithetwha Ndlondlo, and new signing Thuso Moleleki.
Both teams made many changes, experimenting with different teams, and the match ended with no further goals.
Pictured above: Orlando Pirates midfielder Karim Kimvuidi in action against Al Sadd.
Source: Al Sadd
