‘He helped us win the title’ – Ouaddou hails Pirates’ new signing

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has heaped praise on new signing Gamphani Lungu after the forward once again found the back of the net in Saturday’s 3-0 victory over Sekhukhune United in the MTN8 semi-final.

The Buccaneers secured a convincing 4-0 aggregate victory to book their place in the MTN8 final for a fifth consecutive season.

Lungu was among the scorers in the second leg, continuing what has been an impressive start to life at Pirates since his move from Siwelele.

The 25-year-old caught the eye last season with the Free State outfit and played a key role in their strong campaign.

His most memorable performance came towards the end of the league season when he scored a hat-trick against Mamelodi Sundowns, a result that ultimately helped Pirates edge out Masandawana in the title race.

Having worked with Lungu this season, Ouaddou believes his impact should come as no surprise, reminding the media that the attacker had already played a part in Pirates’ success before making the switch to the Soweto giants.

“This boy helped us to win the title last season. I was not surprised when he came here. He was very excited, first of all, he was very happy to join such a big club. From last season, I think already part of the family,” Ouaddou said with a smile.

Lungu a new hero for Pirates

Lungu has quickly established himself as one of Pirates’ most effective new additions. He has now scored three goals in all competitions and continues to make an impression whenever given the opportunity.

With the season still in its early stages, the forward is already showing signs that he could prove to be one of the Buccaneers’ most important signings of the campaign.