Super Eagles defender Olisa Ndah delivered an exceptional performance on Tuesday afternoon, leading Orlando Pirates to a commanding 3-0 victory over Polokwane City in their Betway Premiership clash at Orlando Stadium, Soccernet.ng reports.
Ndah’s solid display in defence earned him the Man of the Match award, despite going off injured in the 83rd minute following a collision with Cole Alexander.
Ndah’s performance outshone that of his teammate Evidence Makgopa, who netted two late goals for the Buccaneers.
☠️ Man of the Match | @olisandah6
⚽️ FT | @orlandopirates 3 – 0 @polokwane_city
🥅 Saleng 55’, Makgopa 85’, 90+1’
⚫⚪🔴⭐#MatchDay#BetwayPrem#OrlandoPirates #OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/LigqLRYceg
— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) September 24, 2024
Though Makgopa was also a strong contender for the award, it was Ndah’s composure, positioning, and leadership at the back that secured the accolade.
His presence in the heart of the Pirates’ defence proved critical in keeping a clean sheet against Polokwane City’s persistent attacks.
Ndah, who was part of Nigeria’s squad for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations and recently received a call-up for Nigeria’s upcoming fixtures against Benin Republic and Rwanda, once again showed why he is regarded as one of Africa’s top defenders.
His ability to read the game and organise the backline was evident throughout the match, particularly when Orlando Pirates were under pressure in the first half.
The Buccaneers were in control from the start, dictating possession and creating several early chances.
Tshegofatso Mabasa saw his third-minute shot deflected wide, and though Polokwane City had a brief spell of attacking intent, Pirates always looked the more likely to score.
Monnapule Saleng opened the scoring early in the second half, latching onto a pass from Relebohile Mofokeng before beating the goalkeeper from a tight angle.
As the match wore on, Pirates extended their lead when Karim Kimvuidi’s powerful shot hit the upright, allowing Makgopa to tap in the rebound.
⚽️ FT | @orlandopirates 3 – 0 @polokwane_city
🥅 Saleng 55’, Makgopa 85’, 90+1’
⚫⚪🔴⭐#MatchDay#BetwayPrem#OrlandoPirates #OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/p6AGrXL5y4
— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) September 24, 2024
The towering South African forward added a second late in the game, capitalising on a defensive error to slot home from close range and seal a 3-0 win.
Ndah’s standout performance not only reinforced his reputation as one of the best defenders on the continent but also highlighted his importance to Orlando Pirates’ unbeaten run this season.