Orlando Pirates coach Muhsin Ertugral has heaped praise on defender Happy Jele following their victory over Golden Arrows in the Telkom Knockout Cup.

The Buccaneers secure a 2-1 victory over beat Abafana Bes’thende in the last-16 of the knockout tournament at the Orlando Stadium on Sunday.

The 57-year-old has showered Jele with praise following his performance for the Sea Robbers over the weekend.

‘People ask why Happy is playing but Happy is a pressure player who is tactically brilliant in important roles,’ Ertugral said.

‘Jele has quality. Like (Mpho) Makola, Oupa (Manyisa), Issa (Sarr) … outside of their on-pitch ability, in the dressing room, they are commanding figures.’

Ertugral believes his side are starting to show signs of improvement after ending their three-game winless streak in all competitions.

‘We still have a lot to do before the players understand what we are trying to do but I’m happy that there are signs today,’ he added.

Orlando Pirates will now go head-to-head against Kaizer Chiefs in a Soweto derby in the Absa Premiership on Saturday.

The match at FNB Stadium kicks off at 15:30.