Orlando Pirates player ratings after Al-Ittihad loss: Shandu outstanding as Motshwari struggles

Indifferent night in goal for the experienced keeper.

Mpontshane's positioning for the third goal, in particular, was poor, but he can't be blamed for Al-Ittihad's second goal as he was let down by his defence.

Undoubtedly Pirates' best player on the night.

Shandu was always a threat to Al-Ittihad's defence in the right flank and he took his two goals very well, while also being solid defensively.

Worked hard in the left flank.

However, Mako struggled to make any notable impact on either side of the field with his crosses being cleared away with ease by the hosts.

Struggled to contain Anas Al Misrati, who stretched the Bucs defence at times with his mobility.

Ndah's positioning was suspect whenever the North African side came forward in attack.

Didn't cover himself in glory either.

Jele looked shaky in defence and lacked the solidity that Pirates boasted in their first three games in 2022, but he did carry the ball forward a few times in the second-half.

The Bucs midfield was non-exist, especially in the first-half.

Motshwari failed to protect the Bucs defence as he made some mistimed tackles and his passing was also poor which led to his withdrawal towards the end of the game.

The youngster was a non-factor attacking-wise.

However, Mosele's passing still gave Pirates some much-needed control in the second-half as they searched for a late equalising goal.

Pirates' best attacker on the night as he always looked to make things happen.

Lorch's movement and awareness were good in the final third, but his end product was lacking at times.

Failed to impress on his return to the starting line-up.

Makaringe could not make the desired impact despite laying off several accurate passes as he attempted to create chances for his teammates.

Came into the game as the most in-form Pirates attacker.

However, Hotto never troubled Al-Ittihad as the hosts' defenders did well to contain him whenever he was in possession.

Handed his maiden start for Bucs since 2020.

Lepasa looked frustrated upfront due to lack of service from midfield and he was the first Pirates player to be substituted.

Injected some needed speed and urgency into Bucs' attack after coming on in the 64th minute, but chances did not fall for him.

Came on for the final 16 minutes of the match, but he was barely seen.

Introduced with eight minutes left and he had limited time to make an impact.