John Maduka focused on momentum as Orlando Pirates loom

The Limpopo side famously eliminated The Buccaneers in last season’s edition, and with the two teams meeting again at Orlando Stadium on 28 October, the tie already carries a sense of unfinished business.¨

Speaking after Saturday’s win at the Seshego Stadium, Maduka emphasised the importance of maintaining momentum as they prepare for one of their biggest tests of the season.

"Yeah, very important, you know each and every game is very important especially, it was very important for us to win at least two games in a row after a long time because it gives them confidence that they are starting to believe in themselves that they're gonna be able to win,” Maduka said.

‘We've been unlucky in so many games but now, if we win games like this, that belief comes back to them which is very, very, very good but so proud of the boys." 

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The coach adds that the technical team addressed areas of concern during the FIFA break and it paid off.

"Yes, it worked because you see, they managed to score a goal or two, we managed to create chances but we found out also that as much we go forward, we've been lacking at the back,” the coach added.

‘So, in a normal play we managed to defend, we defended well, it was only the setpiece that we were not able to defend. So, that we have improved and that's one thing that we tried and worked more on during the training session."

Just as they were tough to beat last season under Owen da Gama at Seshego Stadium, his successor, Maduka says their home ground must be a fortress.

"Very good point, we're playing at home, we must make things difficult for each and every team. So, happy with the results, there are a couple of games that we could have done even better that we played here. 

“We managed to get a point but it's very important that whenever we are at home, the teams must feel that they are playing away from home."