Head coach Jose Riveiro was full of praise for the impressive Kabelo Dlamini who grabbed a brace in a match-winning performance as Orlando Pirates booked a spot in the Nedbank Cup final after a win over Chippa United.
A first-half brace from Dlamini put Pirates in a commanding position in their Nedbank Cup semi-final clash before Elmo Kambindu reduced the deficit, but Tapelo Xoki wrapped up proceedings with a late goal.
Bienvenu Eva Nga was, meanwhile, dismissed for Chippa with two minutes of the match remaining.
Speaking after the game, a delighted Riveiro lauded his underrated attacker.
The Bucs boss told SuperSport: “KB is an excellent football player, he understands football very well.
“Sometimes we don’t give him the flowers he deserves but his contribution in the last two seasons has been excellent, and he hasn’t touched his best yet, we are still going to see it.”
Man of the match Dlamini, meanwhile, praised his manager for giving the Bucs players freedom to express themselves.
He stated: “It was a tough first half of the season for me, I had a lot of injuries and I am happy I have bounced back when it mattered most for the team.
“I am happy I am helping the team in the second round of the season.
“The coach is giving us a lot of confidence, and the freedom to enjoy ourselves.”
☠️ FT || @ChippaUnitedFC 1 - 3 @orlandopirates
— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) May 4, 2024
🥅 5', 41' Dlamini
🥅 81' Xoki
🎙 Man of the Match & Goalscorer | Kabelo Dlamini
⚫️⚪️🔴⭐️#Matchday #NedbankCup#OrlandoPirates#OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/J9G04L5PVe
