‘Maybe I’m Still a Plumber’ – Pirates Coach Ouaddou

Abdeslam Ouaddou, the head coach of Orlando Pirates, maintains that his tactical success in the 3-0 MTN8 final victory doesn't define him. He believes a coach's value isn't measured by a single game.

After two league defeats, many fans questioned his credentials and compared him unfavorably to his predecessor, Jose Riveiro. Riveiro had built an impressive legacy at the club with three straight MTN8 titles and other domestic successes.

However, Ouaddou and his staff stuck to their plan, and it paid off in spectacular fashion. The team defeated a formidable Sundowns side in the semifinals before securing a historic fourth consecutive MTN8 title against Stellenbosch. 

The final was deadlocked after 90 minutes, but Ouaddou's substitutions proved decisive. Oswin Appollis, Tshepang Moremi, and Tshegofatso Mabasa were brought into the game and were directly involved in all three goals, turning a tight match into a convincing victory. 

The win showcased Ouaddou's ability to make game-changing decisions under pressure, earning him the respect of players and fans alike.

‘IT DOESN’T MEAN I’M A BETTER COACH’

“We had to go to extra-time and we completely changes the plan quickly with my staff, trying to find space on the sides, so we brought some pace on the sides, who were able to make the difference and bring crosses,” he said.

“We brought in Mabasa, we know him as a player in the box, he’s not someone to make all the pressing like Makgopa, it’s a kind of player that needs to be served by good players.

“So we decided to bring Moremi, Appollis and it worked [to get the win] and it doesn’t mean I am a better coach than two months ago, I think maybe I’m still a plumber or carpenter for many people, I don’t think myself better than Steve Barker.

“I have huge respect for the coach, a very good coach and a very interesting team of Stellenbosch, it’s a very stable, professional cluib for a long time and we’re happy to have won this trophy.”