The coach who developed Orlando Pirates’ MTN8 hero, Tshepang Moremi, has explained why he nicknamed the talented winger ‘Buddha.’
The 24-year-old attacker came off the bench in extra time on Saturday to score twice, helping the Buccaneers secure their fourth consecutive MTN8 title.
Pirates and Stellenbosch FC had been tied goalless after 90 minutes and had to go to extra time. The Mighty Buccaneers scored thrice in extra time to lift the cup competition once more.
Motsamai Motsepe, who coached Moremi at Sharpeville Benfica Sports Development Club in the early stages of his career, has always referred to him as Buddha.
Buddha, who lived 2,600 years ago, was known for his teachings on enlightenment and the end of suffering, which became the basis of the religion, Buddhism.
MOTSEPE EXPLAINS MOREMI’S BUDDHA NICKNAME
“I nicknamed him ‘Buddha’ after the Indian God,” Motsepe told FARPost. “He was performing miracles at a young age, almost like God. He was a boy who made things happen. There were games we didn’t win when he wasn’t there, but when he was around, he performed magic. The name grew even at school.”
“I just didn’t want to use ‘God’ out of respect for the word’s widespread popularity. I often referred to him as the Hand of God, the football god. So, I wanted a different version. He had so many qualities – small in stature, quick and deceptive. Innovative too.”
Motsepe believes the Bafana Bafana winger is yet to hit top gear.
“I feel very excited, but I think he can do a lot more than he’s currently doing. When he played for my team, he would score every game. He would score and create chances a lot; maybe it’s the level. Once he hits the ground running, he will do more than he’s doing.”
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