Midfielder Siphelo Baloni has opened up on how he felt to make his debut for Orlando Pirates against Mamelodi Sundowns and an incident that left him 'heartbroken'.
Baloni was signed by The Buccaneers after an impressive season The 24-year-old was signed from MFC side All-Stars ahead of the 2023/24 season.
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The 24-year-old was thrown in the deep end when he was named in The Sea Robbers starting eleven against Mamelodi Sundowns in September.
Speaking at a recent Adidas event at Maponya Mall, Baloni opened about his debut.
"I was nervous a bit but I told myself it's not the first time I play against Sundowns," Baloni said.
"I had played against them in a friendly but I told myself that it would be a different feeling, the game was going to be intense. I just told myself that let me just get in there and do what I need to do, let me not put pressure on myself.
"I'm also good, they must feel me. I was relaxed when the game started. That's when the feeling goes away.
Unfortunately, Baloni was adjudged to have fouled Sundowns' Themba Zwane in the penalty box and Lucas Riberio converted to give The Brazilians a goal that would prove to be the match-winner.
"When it comes to the penalty, I was heartbroken. I just myself let me continue. There is nothing I can do The referee has made a decision. I must be brave and show character," added Baloni.
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The midfielder has since made six more appearances for the Pirates and will be hoping to be on the team sheet when the Buccaneers take on Moroka Swallows at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday, 5 December.
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