Orlando Pirates youngster Mpho Padime has opened up about his memorable afternoon after scoring the winning goal in his first start for the club, helping the Buccaneers secure a place in the Carling Knockout Cup semi-finals.

The 19-year-old academy graduate was handed an opportunity by head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou when Pirates faced Sekhukhune United in their quarter-final encounter at eSgodini on Saturday afternoon. The youngster responded in the best possible way by scoring the only goal of the match to give his team a narrow 1-0 victory.

It was an important result for the Soweto giants, who remain on course to defend their Carling Knockout Cup title. Pirates have now beaten Sekhukhune four times in all competitions this season, showing their dominance over Babina Noko in their recent meetings.

However, the biggest talking point from Saturday's encounter was Padime's contribution. The young attacker made his first start for the senior team count by delivering the goal that separated the two sides. His performance also earned him the Man of the Match award and a R100,000 cash prize.

Speaking to SuperSport TV after the final whistle, Padime expressed his happiness and thanked the coaching staff and his teammates for giving him the opportunity to represent the first team.

"I feel very happy, and I'd like to thank the coaches and my teammates for the opportunity they granted me, so yeah I'm very happy," he said.

For the young Pirates player, the occasion was particularly meaningful because he had been waiting for an opportunity to show what he could offer at senior level. He also spoke about the emotions he experienced when he first arrived at the club and how much it meant to finally get his chance.

"There's not much I can say because I've been waiting for my chance. I'm from the township and when I first arrived, I was scared but I've always wanted to be here," Padime explained.

His comments showed how much the opportunity meant to him, especially after spending time working towards becoming part of the senior team. Scoring in his first start will certainly give him confidence as he continues his development at one of the biggest clubs in South African football.

Padime also explained the message the players received from Ouaddou during the match. The Pirates coach encouraged his team to remain patient and continue getting the ball into the Sekhukhune penalty area because an opportunity to score would eventually arrive.

The teenager acknowledged that it was not an easy match, as Sekhukhune were equally determined to reach the semi-finals. However, Pirates understood that they needed to find a way to secure the result.

"It wasn't easy out there on the pitch, but obviously we have to show that we're Pirates. It's hard but we had to try something even if it means we win 1-0, we'll take it and work better next time," he added.

Padime was also asked about his plans for the R100,000 prize money he received after being named Man of the Match.

The youngster revealed that he had not yet decided what to do with the money and would rather discuss it with his family before making any decisions. He also recognised the happiness his achievement would bring to those who have supported him throughout his journey.

"I'll decide with the family what we'll do with it because I know wherever they are, they are very happy," he concluded.

Padime's performance will be encouraging for Ouaddou and the Pirates supporters, particularly because the club continues to develop young players capable of making an impact in the first team.

His winning goal against Sekhukhune was an important contribution at a crucial stage of the competition. With Pirates now through to the semi-finals alongside Mamelodi Sundowns, the youngster will hope that his impressive first start can open the door to more opportunities as the season progresses.

For a 19-year-old who had been waiting patiently for his chance, Saturday's performance was certainly an afternoon to remember.

Source: IDiskiTimes