Orlando Pirates wrapped up their DStv Diski Challenge Champions (DDC) Tour on a high note, clinching two impressive victories after an underwhelming start.
The Buccaneers embarked on this tour as a reward for their triumph in the 2025/26 DDC league title.
However, the journey began on a disappointing note with a staggering 5-0 defeat against Vitesse on Tuesday.
Following that, a hard-fought draw against De Graafschap on Thursday left the team reflecting on missed opportunities, a match they could have easily claimed as their own.
Yet, determination was the order of the day on Saturday as they sought redemption.
They delivered a strong performance, beginning with a solid 2-0 victory over Japan’s Yamanashi Gakuin, where Will Henson and Mpho “Phopho” Padime found the back of the net.
Their second match was even more dominant. Pirates overwhelmed the hosts, Sparta Rotterdam, with a convincing 3-1 win that showcased their control from the first whistle to the final minutes.
Henson and Padime struck again, while Joy Manana also made his mark, contributing significantly to both encounters.
Orlando Pirates concluded their DStv Diski Challenge Netherlands Tour on a positive note with two victories.
— Asidlali (@Asidlali) August 22, 2026
In four matches played, they lost once, drew once, and won twice... that's a pass mark 😉#Asidlali #PiratesTour #SivuthaManje pic.twitter.com/jbI1qeqWoa
In the aftermath of the games, Pirates coach Roscoe Krieling expressed his satisfaction with how the tour concluded.
He acknowledged the areas that need sharpening as they prepare for the daunting 2026/27 DDC season.
“The boys came with the wrong mindset for the first match, which turned out to be a tough lesson,” Krieling said.
“Sometimes players don’t heed our warnings, and on Tuesday, the football gods showed them that disrespecting the game has its consequences.”
That setback galvanized the squad, prompting them to unite and elevate their game.
“Today they played with energy, scoring goals back-to-back,” Krieling reflected.
“We’ll take the positives from this. As we return to the DDC league, we know it’s going to be a long and challenging season.”
Krieling believes they’re on the right trajectory as they gear up for the new season but recognises there’s still work to be done.
“Physically, I feel good about the team. Tactically, we have room for improvement, especially in finishing, an area we need to address to ensure we’re ready come kickoff.”