Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro has praised Olisa Ndah for a good performance against Mamelodi Sundowns in their MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida stadium on Saturday evening.

The Nigerian-born defender has been out of action for the Buccaneers since February 2023 after he scored an own goal in Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs.

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Ndah came on as a substitute in the first half after Nkosinathi Sibisi picked up an injury. Riveiro was impressed with the performance of Ndah who played well alongside Thapelo Xoki.

“Olisa [was] exceptional, coming from the bench. Almost 10 months injured and he was spectacular tonight. Xoki as usual, the fullbacks as well. I think everybody I mean the midfielders the one team until they were a bit tired,” Riveiro said during the post-match press conference at Durban.

OLISA NDAH GREAT PERFORMANCE IN THE MTN8 FINAL

However, the Spaniard was not impressed with the performance of his team but indicated that sometimes you need other things to win the match and they did that. The windy weather didn’t allow both teams to play their usual game.

“In general, I think it was that kind of performance that probably you will not remember because of the football that we developed during the night with our moments as well.

“But in terms of fighting commitment, and in the finals, you need to really want it. If you want it badly more than the opponent then you’re closer, it’s how Pirates play in the finals.

“Football is not only about possession and number of passes. Sometimes you need other things and we did that well,” he said.

The Buccaneers will be back in action after the FIFA break in when they host Polokwane City at Orlando stadium.

By Katleho Hlalele