Ouaddou sends firm message to Pirates players – ‘We’re not here to joke’

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has fired a strong warning to his team over the need to show seriousness in their games.

Ouaddou blasted his players on Tuesday for showboating after their 2-1 win over Magesi FC in the Carling knockout quarter-final, saying he wants them to put on a show with the aim of scoring not just to entertain fans.

The former Marumo Gallants coach has reiterated his stance over the need to show seriousness as he feels that is the only wany they can score many goals and win games which will help them lift trophies.

Ouaddou is keen to avoid complacency in his team as they challenge on multiple fronts and feels taking the opponent seriously even when they are in a position of comfort is paramount.

What has the Pirates coach told his players?

 “At the end of the league [campaign], every goal is important, so don’t joke, we’re not here to joke, we’re here to perform, to get results,” Ouaddou told the media.

“So if someone wants to enjoy joking, no problem, he can go play five-a-side with his friends, we’re not here to joke. We’re here to reach our targets.”

Pirates are still left with the Carling Knockout, PSL and Nedbank Cup to contest this season following their elimination from the CAF Champions League and they are seen as the main challengers for Mamelodi Sundowns for the league title.

Their victory against Magesi saw them make it to the Carling Knockout semi-final and it is the next trophy they are targeting after winning the MTN8, especially with the likes of Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs out.