Fans of Orlando Pirates have a new midfield dynamo to watch this weekend. Masindi Nemtajela delivered a stunning performance in a new role, making him a key figure ahead of the club’s crucial clash....Click to Read More >>➤
On Saturday at 15:30, the Buccaneers face Mamelodi Sundowns at Loftus Versfeld. All eyes will be on the team selection, particularly after Nemtajela’s recent breakthrough.
Masindi Nemtajela Shines in Deeper Role for Orlando Pirates
The 23-year-old from Chiawelo, Soweto, was deployed in an unfamiliar deeper midfield position during Tuesday’s 2-1 Carling Knockout victory over Magesi FC. With regular starter Sihle Nduli out injured, Nemtajela was tasked with dropping behind debutant Camren Dansen.
He embraced the challenge completely. His commanding performance in the engine room earned him the Man of the Match award, confirming his versatility and value to the squad.
“With my performance, it was just about dedication. So, I’m happy with my performance,” Nemtajela told SuperSport TV after the match. He clarified the tactical shift, stating, “Yes, the coach set us up like that, because obviously Mr Nduli is injured. So, they placed me in that position and told me to look after Dansen. So, that’s why today I was playing deeper.”
This strategic move by the Orlando Pirates coaching staff has unlocked another dimension to Nemtajela’s game. His ability to adapt so effectively provides the team with a valuable new option in the center of the park.
Rapid Rise Earns National Team Recognition
The former Marumo Gallants player’s swift ascent has not gone unnoticed. His consistent and impactful displays for Orlando Pirates caught the eye of Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos. Nemtajela was named in the preliminary squad for next month’s international friendly against Zambia.
This national team call-up is a testament to his hard work and quality. It marks a significant milestone in the young midfielder’s career.
Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, who first worked with him at Gallants, is not surprised by his success. “Masindi, I know him for a long time because I was his coach at my previous club,” Ouaddou said after Nemtajela’s Man of the Match debut against TS Galaxy earlier this season.
“He’s a fantastic player. We asked him to be patient, and his time came, and he showed it with a fantastic performance,” the French-Moroccan coach added. This patience is now paying dividends for the Orlando Pirates.
Crucial Test Against Mamelodi Sundowns Looms
The big question now is whether Nemtajela will reprise his role as a number six against the formidable Mamelodi Sundowns. The fixture at Loftus Versfeld presents a much sterner test than the midweek cup tie.
His performance against Magesi FC makes a compelling case for his inclusion. Deploying him in a deeper position could be a key tactical ploy to disrupt Sundowns’ rhythm.
This match is a pivotal moment in the Betway Premiership season. A positive result for Orlando Pirates would send a strong message to the league.
Masindi Nemtajela’s emergence as a flexible and reliable midfielder is a major boost for Orlando Pirates. His journey from a patient squad member to a national team prospect underscores the value of perseverance. Fans will be eager to see if he gets the nod to showcase his talents once again on the big stage this Saturday. ...Click to Read More >>➤
