Granada Coach’s Surprising Praise for Orlando Pirates After Spain Showdown
Orlando Pirates’ recent preseason tour in Spain concluded on a high note with a 2-0 victory over Granada, a result that not only boosted the team’s confidence but also earned them unexpected accolades from their opponents.
The Granada coach, speaking through a translator, expressed genuine admiration for Pirates’ style, intensity, and teamwork.
What exactly did the Granada coach say about Pirates, and why does this bode well for the upcoming season? Let’s explore the details.
The match itself was a showcase of Pirates’ attacking prowess and tactical discipline.
Goals came from right-back Tomareta and forward Patrick Ty Scott, who also provided an assist for teammate Yan Lambuma.
Although Pirates could have scored more—missed chances by players like Mori and Bulgazi highlighted their attacking threat—the 2-0 scoreline was a fair reflection of their dominance.
What stood out most was the Granada coach’s reaction post-match.
Despite his team’s loss, he praised the Pirates squad for their collective work ethic and high pressing game.
He noted how well the players worked together, maintaining a high intensity throughout the match.
This level of cohesion and energy impressed the Granada coach, who admitted to being surprised by the dynamic nature of Pirates’ play.
A particular point of praise was the involvement of Pirates’ goalkeeper in the team’s overall tactics.
The Granada coach highlighted how the goalkeeper was actively engaged in every situation, contributing significantly to the team’s buildup play.
This modern approach to goalkeeping, where the keeper acts almost as an additional outfield player, has become increasingly important in contemporary football, and Pirates demonstrated this well.
The goalkeepers in the match were Chain and Sabonga, both of whom performed admirably.
Commentators noted that Chain and Laza (another goalkeeper in the squad) are very similar in style, both comfortable with ball distribution and possessing excellent vision and long passing ability.
This suggests that Pirates have strong depth in the goalkeeper position, with Laza potentially challenging for the number two spot behind Chain.
The Granada coach’s translator revealed that the coach was somewhat frustrated by the result, as Granada had prepared extensively for the game, viewing it as crucial preparation for their own season.
Despite this, the coach’s respect for Pirates’ quality and teamwork was evident.
He did not single out any individual players but emphasized the team’s collective pressing and tactical discipline.
This praise is significant because it comes from a European side, reflecting well on Pirates’ preseason preparations and their ability to compete against international teams.
The coach’s comments suggest that Pirates arrived in Spain as a developing squad and left as a much-improved team, having grown in confidence and tactical understanding.
Fans and analysts alike see this as a promising sign for Pirates’ upcoming Premier Soccer League campaign.
The team’s ability to press intensely, maintain tactical discipline, and involve the goalkeeper in play are all hallmarks of a modern, competitive side.
In conclusion, the Granada coach’s praise underscores Orlando Pirates’ progress during their Spain tour.
Despite some setbacks, including injuries to key players, the team demonstrated resilience and quality that impressed seasoned European professionals.
This bodes well for their ambitions as they prepare to challenge for honors in the domestic league.
As the season approaches, Pirates will look to build on this momentum, integrating lessons learned and maintaining the high standards that earned them such commendation abroad.
The eyes of South African football fans will be keenly watching to see if Pirates can translate this preseason promise into competitive success.
Stay tuned for more updates as Orlando Pirates gear up for the new season, carrying with them the respect of international opponents and the hopes of their passionate supporters.
