ORLANDO Pirates' development coach is happy that the Nike Manchester United Premier Cup will expose their players to international soccer.

ORLANDO Pirates' development coach is happy that the Nike Manchester United Premier Cup will expose their players to international soccer.

Pirates qualified by winning their South African version of the tournament after beating SuperSport United Feyernoord Academy 1-0 in Soweto on Sunday.

This will be the second time the junior Amabhakabhaka feature in this competition in England in August after finishing ninth overall two years ago.

Said Bucs coach Sibusiso Masoka: "T he most important thing about the finals in England is to expose our boys to international soccer which will help junior national teams like Majimbos and Amajita."

Augusto "Njenje" Palacios, head of Pirates development, said: "We will work with Madida (Sibusiso) in their preparations for the finals."

Solly Luvhengo, United Feyernood coach, said: "I'm still proud of my boys despite the loss."

Luvhengo, who is also the head coach of Majimbos, was also commended by colleagues Geodfrey Mosoetsa, Kwanele Kopo and Coltrane Munyai.

Phil "Chippa" Mogodi, Safa Soweto chief executive officer, said said they were happy that the tournament was growing in leaps and bounds.