Ouaddou: My Reasons for Substituting Maswanganyi Early

Orlando Pirates’ head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou provided insights into his bold decision to substitute Patrick Maswanganyi just 36 minutes into the MTN8 semifinal second leg against Mamelodi Sundowns.

Ouaddou remarked that the midfielder was “not performing to his potential.”

Only 36 minutes into the match, the coaching team made a pivotal decision, bringing on Bandile Shandu for Maswanganyi at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday.

This tactical change allowed Shandu to take on the right back position, shifting Kamogelo Sebelebele to the right wing and enabling Relebohile Mofokeng to occupy the number 10 role left by Maswanganyi. Oswin Appollis, originally on the right side, moved to the left to replace Mofokeng.

The alterations paid off effectively. Appollis delivered a cross that Tshegofatso Mabasa deftly controlled and laid off for Sebelebele, who finished from close range, equalizing Iqraam Rayners’ earlier goal and leveling the aggregate score at 2-2.

Sebelebele also found the net against Sundowns in the first leg at Orlando Stadium the previous weekend while playing in a more offensive capacity.

Ouaddou stood by his decision, underlining Maswanganyi’s importance in the team: “We must exercise caution because Patrick is among our best players.”

“He’s an incredible talent. He has always had a positive impact on the club; I believe in him.”

Reflecting on his career, Ouaddou shared, “In my 17 years as a professional, I remember many occasions when I was substituted when I wasn’t playing at my best.”

“This doesn’t mean I was a poor player; it simply indicates that Saturday wasn’t his day. Nevertheless, I still have faith in him; he is crucial for our team. Who knows, he might be a starter in the final. It was just a tactical move on that day.”

Ultimately, Pirates triumphed 4-1 in the penalty shootout and will face Stellenbosch in the final on September 13, with the PSL yet to announce the venue.

The Soweto Giants aim to capture this tournament for an extraordinary fourth consecutive time.