Mandla Ncikazi promises a stronger Orlando Pirates after disappointing league finish

The result concluded the Buccaneers' Betway Premiership campaign in somewhat subdued fashion, as champions Mamelodi Sundowns had wrapped up the title two weeks earlier.

Pirates looked to end the season on a high, and they started brightly with Patrick Maswanganyi opening the scoring in the seventh minute.

However, their lead was short-lived, as Magesi's Edmore Chirambadare struck back just after the half-hour mark to level the game.

The result saw the Soweto giants finish second on the log with 61 points, 12 behind the runaway champions Sundowns, who ended the season with 73 points.

Despite the disappointment of falling short, Ncikazi remains confident that the team is heading in the right direction.

"Orlando Pirates will be a better team next season. We'll improve. I trust the football wisdom within our management team. Now is the time to reflect, compile our reports, and critically analyse where we went wrong and where we did well," Ncikazi told the media during a post-match interview.

Ncikazi also emphasized the need for targeted reinforcements in the transfer window and a clear roadmap to narrow the gap on Sundowns, who have now claimed an eighth successive league crown.

"Once we've identified the areas that need strengthening, I'm sure the solutions will follow. We are determined to return stronger and more competitive next season," he added.

While his position as head coach remains uncertain, Ncikazi's commitment to Pirates' progress is unwavering, hinting at an internal desire to dethrone Sundowns and end their long-standing dominance.