Ouaddou Tackles Growing Pressure Before Sundowns Showdown
Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou addressed inquiries regarding the suitability of facing Mamelodi Sundowns after a challenging period, with the pressure mounting following two consecutive defeats.
The Buccaneers are set to welcome the Brazilians for the first leg of the MTN8 semi-final at a packed Orlando Stadium this Saturday (15:00). Meanwhile, the Moroccan coach finds himself under scrutiny due to the team’s recent performances under his direction.
Pirates have recorded back-to-back losses in the league against Sekhukhune United and Marumo Gallants, matching a long-standing club record of losing their initial two league games, a scenario not seen since the 2007/08 season. This has left them in 14th place on the league table.
While opinions vary on whether this is an opportune moment to face Sundowns, given the likely dip in morale and confidence within the Bucs camp, the former Gallants mentor remains positive about his team’s prospects against Masandawana.
“This matchup is exciting for us and our supporters; our primary goal is to perform excellently, give our all, and secure a win on Saturday. We understand the challenges, but that is our main focus,” Ouaddou stated.
“Leading such a renowned club comes with its own challenges, but we must harness that pressure positively, aiming to deliver our best for our supporters and working to restore joy and victories to the club,” he continued.
Despite the rocky start to his tenure at Pirates, Ouaddou seems to have made the decision to bench several key players, including Tshegofatso Mabasa, Thalente Mbatha, and Deano Van Rooyen, emphasizing that he possesses a talented roster and that every player will have their opportunity in time.
“It’s crucial to recognize the depth of our squad and our ambitions. We have gifted players; each one matters to the club, as I’ve stressed, and all will get the chance to compete and showcase their skills,” he remarked.
“Incorporating numerous new players is essential, enabling them to demonstrate their capabilities, but indeed, everyone’s contributions are vital as we progress through the season.”
