Orlando Pirates head coach José Riveiro might have been expected to reserve all his praise for match-winner Patrick Maswanganyi following his last-minute penalty in the 1-0 victory over Kaizer Chiefs in the Soweto Derby.
However, it was veteran midfielder Makhehleni "Cash" Makhaula who caught the eye with his tireless performance in the heart of the midfield.
While Maswanganyi's composed strike took the headlines, it was Makhaula's superb work in the middle of the park that was instrumental in the Buccaneers' success.
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The 35-year-old, often an unsung hero for his club, put in a Man of the Match performance that was key to denying Chiefs any real control of the game. His energy, tactical discipline, and leadership in the midfield were pivotal as he helped disrupt Chiefs' attacking flow and kept the likes of Yusuf Maart and Sibongiseni Mthethwa at bay.
Speaking after the match, Riveiro, who is usually reserved when it comes to singling out individual performances, was full of praise for the seasoned midfielder.
"I think his performance speaks about the moment he is going through," Riveiro said, acknowledging Makhaula's tireless efforts.
"He is a proper professional, who works so hard. He is pushing himself and everyone around him to take him to the space where we are right now, he was a crucial part [of the result]."
Makhaula, who has been with Pirates for the last two seasons, has often been overlooked in favour of the club's more high-profile signings. However, his consistent displays, such as the one against Chiefs, are a reminder of his value to the team.
His performance against Chiefs will no doubt be remembered as one of his finest moments in a Pirates shirt.
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