Abdeslam Ouaddou explains key duo absence in Orlando Pirates win over Sekhukhune United

Orlando Pirates extended their lead at the top of the Betway Premiership to three points after securing a 2-0 win over Sekhukhune United at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Tuesday night. Boitumelo Radiopane was instrumental in the victory, scoring both goals and demonstrating his impact despite many regular attackers being sidelined.

Radiopane, making his first start of the season, opened the scoring in the 36th minute by firing a shot into the bottom corner from a tight angle after collecting a pass from Kamogelo Sebelebele. Sekhukhune managed to create a few chances despite limited opportunities, but Pirates maintained control throughout the game. Bradley Mojela came close to scoring in the first half, while Simon Ramabu headed wide early in the second period.

A crucial defensive error by Tsepo Matsimbi allowed Radiopane to break through again in the 62nd minute, providing Oswin Appollis with an easy chance to score the second goal from an empty net. Appollis, who had recently returned from international duty at the World Cup, was substituted before the end of the match as Abdeslam Ouaddou made preparations for the upcoming MTN8 semi-final clash.

With this win, Pirates now has 10 points from their first four league matches, including three victories and one draw, while maintaining a clean sheet. They will face Sekhukhune again on Saturday at the same venue, with a 1-0 advantage from their previous encounter. The winner of this match will advance to the final, where they will compete against either Golden Arrows or Mamelodi Sundowns.