The Masandawana sailed into Orlando Stadium and emerged victorious with a solitary goal against the Sea Robbers.
But, according to Mokwena, the real win was the preparation for the Caf Champions League. The 36-year-old lauded the Bucs for providing opposition worthy of a Champions League team.
With the first Group B match of the continental season against Sudan’s Al Hilal Omdurman on the horizon, Mokwena explains the significance of a clean sheet against Pirates.
‘The Champions League is a high-stakes competition for our club and we aim to raise the bar higher than our past three seasons,’ Mokwena was quoted by Sowetan. ‘We’re in it to win it and will give it our all in every match from here on out.’
But, as Mokwena points out, the key to success lies in avoiding conceding goals on the road. ‘In the past two editions, we’ve been knocked out in the quarterfinals due to conceding goals away from home. That’s why I was thrilled with our defensive performance against the hostile and aggressive Orlando crowd.’
Since their continental conquest in 2016, the Masandawana have yet to reach the summit again. However, with a victory against the Sea Robbers under their belt and upcoming matches against Al Hilal, Coton Sport, and Al Ahly, Mokwena and company are ready to make their mark once more.
