Ever wondered as to what is on a Buccaneer’s plate before the match?
Chef Jabulani Makhubele of Marriott Bonvoy group of hotels is the foodie expert that knows very well what to put on a Buccaneer's plate before matchday.
Have you ever wondered as to what is on the plate of the Orlando Pirates player on the eve of a match?
Well, wonder no more as Alex News reveals it for all. Running for 90 minutes during a football competition requires a lot of stamina and consumes a lot of energy from a player and it is important to properly replenish the body of a soccer player with energy.
In addition to constant practice, diet also plays an important role, especially before going to the field. So, what do the newly crowned MTN8 champions, Orlando Pirates FC eat before a soccer game?
ALSO READ: Orlando Pirates Black Leopards in Absa Premiership Clash
Chef Jabulani Makhubele, executive chef of the Protea Hotel by Marriott at the Wanderers precinct in Johannesburg, unpacks what The Ghosts of Orlando eat in preparation for any upcoming match.
“The meals leading up to the match are filled with low GI and whole grain carbohydrates, the proteins are mainly grilled, skinless chicken breast, with a light seasoning of salt and pepper grilled fish, and minimal to no dairy and despite the Buccaneers knowing this – absolutely no pastries allowed before matchday.”
ALSO READ: Orlando Pirates assistant Rhulani Mokoena awash with advice for aspirant coaches
To many of our surprise, the Pirates players requested a meal just before a game is familiar to many of our households. It is good old spaghetti Bolognese with a sprinkle of grated cheese.
Chef Makhubele remarks that the players and the team are all down-to-earth and do not make any outrageous requests – some players will request raw/boiled eggs but nothing beyond that.
“We have a great working relationship with the football club’s management – I receive the team’s menu at least 2 days before camp and paired with our long-term understanding of the team’s needs, my team can prepare any meal service easily.
ALSO READ: Alex coach chuffed by Orlando Pirates assistant Rhulani Mokoena
When I see Orlando Pirates playing well and succeeding, I can’t help but feel that my team and I played some small role in that,” said Chef Makhubele.
The international award-winning loyalty programme, Marriott Bonvoy offers accommodation, as well as a tailored catering fit for the Sea Robbers at select Marriott hotels across South Africa.
“Chef Makhubele is a testament to the commitment and loyalty that the Marriott Bonvoy programme heralds. True to his passion and the long-standing relationship we have with the football club, the exclusive multi-year partnership to become the official accommodation partner of Pirates is something we at Marriott International are proud of,” said Sean Maher, Marriott International South Africa marketing vice president.
ALSO READ: WATCH: Orlando Pirates Spends 80th Birthday Giving Back In Alexandra Township
