South Africa international reveals how Orlando Pirates’ Ouaddou has motivated him

Orlando Pirates star Neo Rapoo has conceded the praise from coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has given him the extra motivation to give his best.

The 21-year-old is among the new players who joined the Soweto giants at the beginning of the season after impressing while with Siwelele. However, it wasn’t going to be easy getting game-time regularly owing to the quality of legendary Namibia international Deon Hotto and Nkosikhona Ndaba.

This season, the South Africa U23 international , has made seven appearances across all competitions. Coach Ouaddou is convinced Rapoo and Ndaba have what it takes to break into the national senior team Bafana Bafana.

Rapoo opens up on extra motivation

“Having someone that believes in you a lot, also gives you that extra motivation, even though it is hard to stay patient, but it’s a thing I have to work on, and just learn from the guys who are playing at the moment, I need to be patient, keep working hard and I will get my chances,” Rapoo said.

“I’ve settled in well, with the grootmanne there, they are treating me well, and they tell me to keep working hard, each and every day, and now coming here with the U23s, I can say I’ve learnt a lot from Hotto and Ndaba.

“They are doing very well, so as a player I just have to be patient, keep working hard and be grateful for the opportunities I get, the time that I play – under coach Ouaddou, just be grateful for the opportunity,” the talented defender concluded.