Orlando Pirates News Today: Ouaddou on Broos, club to refund fans & Rapoo reacts to debut

Orlando Pirates news, as head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou explains his relationship with Hugo Broos, club to issue refunds and Neo Rapoo on his debut.

Ouaddou hails Broos’ contribution to African football

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has paid a warm tribute to Hugo Broos following the Belgian’s departure from the Bafana Bafana hot seat, praising his enormous contribution to the continent’s football landscape.

Speaking after Pirates’ 2-0 Betway Premiership victory over Milford FC at Orlando Amstel Arena, Ouaddou reflected on Broos’ character and the values he brought to South African football during his five-year tenure.

The Moroccan coach highlighted the cultural similarities between his own upbringing and the region Broos hails from in eastern Belgium, noting the emphasis on hard work and humility that defined the 74-year-old’s approach.

Ouaddou was particularly effusive in his praise of Broos’ commitment to developing local talent rather than importing external expertise — a philosophy that earned the Belgian an AFCON title with Cameroon and widespread respect across the continent.

The Pirates mentor also revealed a collaborative working relationship between the two, with the club facilitating multiple meetings to discuss players and broader footballing matters.

“He’s somebody who loves our football, our continent, and he took time away from his family and gave it to football,” Ouaddou said, before adding that he believes the outgoing coach should be properly recognised for the foundations he has laid.

Orlando Pirates announces refund to fans

Orlando Pirates have issued a formal apology to supporters who were unable to gain entry to Saturday’s season-opening fixture against Milford FC at Orlando Amstel Arena despite holding valid tickets.

The club confirmed that the stadium gates were closed during the match on orders from the Venue Operations Centre (VOC) as a public safety measure. According to the statement, the lockdown was triggered by the activities of criminal syndicates operating around the stadium precinct, who are involved in selling counterfeit tickets and facilitating the unlawful entry of individuals without valid admission.

While acknowledging that the decision was beyond the club’s direct control, Pirates have taken steps to address the situation by appointing Open Tickets to administer refunds. Supporters who purchased valid match tickets but were unable to enter the venue have been asked to contact Open Tickets via email to initiate the process.

Rapoo relishes Bucs debut, eyes regular role

New signing Neo Rapoo has spoken of his pride and excitement after making his Orlando Pirates debut as a second-half substitute in the win over Milford, describing the occasion as a moment he could scarcely believe was happening.

The 20-year-old left-back, who joined from Siwelele during the off-season, replaced veteran Deon Hotto at Orlando Amstel Arena — a ground he had previously visited in opposition colours but never donned the famous black and white.

“Firstly, I didn’t believe it was actually happening, but once I came on, I just told myself to keep it simple and just enjoy the moment, you know, because I’m privileged to play for this big club and blessed as well,” Rapoo revealed in an exclusive interview with Orlandopiratesfc.com.

“It’s been good,” he said. “I didn’t feel new at all. I felt like I’ve been there before, everyone was friendly you know. Cash (Makhehleni Makhaula) has been a grootman that just taught me a lot and made me feel at home.”