Pirates youngster Padime responds to showboating criticism

Orlando Pirates' promising young talent, Mpho Padime, has defended his showboating style, which has sparked criticism from both former players and his own coach, Abdeslam Ouaddou. Padime, who was recently promoted to the senior Buccaneers squad from the DStv Diski Challenge, shared his perspective during a South Africa Under-23 national team camp in Pretoria.

He explained that showboating is an instinctive expression of his footballing identity, stemming from his early exposure to Kasi football in his township upbringing. While acknowledging the importance of adapting to the coach's instructions for success at this level, Padime emphasized that expressing himself on the field is part of who he is as a player.

He expressed motivation from being around experienced Pirates players, who inspire him to continually improve and elevate his game.