Orlando Pirates coach hails striker Yanela Mbuthuma's mental strength

The Buccaneers claimed a crucial 3-1 victory in front of a packed King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium, climbing up to second place in the Betway Premiership standings.

Mbuthuma came off the bench to score a brilliant brace when the game was locked at 1-1, sealing all three points for the Soweto giants.

It was a remarkable turnaround for the 22-year-old forward, who only days earlier had endured heartbreak in the CAF Champions League.

The striker missed a decisive penalty in a shootout against Saint-Eloi Lupopo, a result that saw Pirates eliminated despite his earlier goal in the 90 minutes of that tie.

Ouaddou, however, has been quick to move past that moment, instead highlighting the young striker's attitude and ability to bounce back under pressure.

"I just want to talk about the boy's performance today," Ouaddou told reporters after the match.

"I don't want to go back to that game (against Lupopo). He is in good shape and good spirit. Every time we call him, he gives his best for the team, that's what we expect from all our players."

The Moroccan mentor added that Mbuthuma's mindset reflects the culture of commitment he's trying to build at the club.

"When they get the opportunity, they must show it. He did exactly that," he said.

Mbuthuma's brace took his tally to five goals in eight appearances across all competitions, setting up an emotional clash against his former side Richards Bay in the Carling Knockout semi-final on Saturday, where he can be prove to be key for Bucs.