Ex-defender Ouaddou delights in clean sheet as Pirates hit the summit

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou expressed his delight after his side’s 2-0 victory over Durban City on Saturday, a result that lifted the Buccaneers to the summit of the Betway Premiership. However, he cautioned that humility and hard work remain essential with a long season ahead.

The win at Moses Mabhida Stadium moved Pirates three points clear of Mamelodi Sundowns after 12 matches each.

“We came here with a clear intention to get some points, at least a win. It’s what we did,” Ouaddou said post-match.

The Moroccan tactician admitted the first half was a struggle against Gavin Hunt’s well-drilled outfit:

“It was so difficult. We faced a strong side with very high pressing and couldn’t escape it in the first half. You can see the touch of their coach — Gavin Hunt — one of the best in the PSL.”

Ouaddou praised his players for responding after halftime adjustments:

“We should forget about the first half, but I congratulate the boys for the second half. After tactical changes, we saw the real Orlando Pirates.”

As a former Moroccan international centre-back, Ouaddou highlighted his pride in the team’s defensive resilience, a trait that mirrors his own reputation as a tough, no-nonsense defender during his Ligue 1 days and with the Atlas Lions:

“My satisfaction is that we didn’t concede any goals again. That’s very important for me. And we scored two goals which brings us to the top of the log. But it’s a long way to go. We have to stay humble and keep working.”

Pirates have conceded only five league goals this season, something Ouaddou attributes to improved focus on set pieces:

“Set pieces were a big concern for us, and we’ve improved a lot thanks to the players’ attitude and concentration. It’s all about structure and focus — three seconds of concentration can make the difference.”