Ouaddou unfazed by FIFA break disrupting Orlando Pirates’ momentum

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou remains philosophical about the timing of the international break, brushing aside concerns that it could disrupt his team’s impressive run of form.

The Buccaneers head into the two-week pause riding a wave of momentum, having secured a hard-fought win over Siwelele in the Carling Knockout first round, their seventh consecutive victory across all competitions.

However, the break sees seven Pirates players joining the South African national team for crucial World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda. Deon Hotto has also linked up with Namibia for fixtures in Liberia and Tunisia, while Relebohile Mofokeng was forced to withdraw from the  Bafana Bafana squad due to injury.

On Tuesday, Hugo Broos' team confirmed the arrival of Evidence Makgopa as well to replace Iqraam Rayners, who had been released on medical grounds.

It is the players' duty to answer international calls

“We can’t control the FIFA calendar; we have to respect it. It’s a time for national teams to compete, and for our players to represent their countries. That’s an honour,” he told SuperSport.

“I’ve been an international myself, and when your country calls, it’s your duty to answer. It doesn’t break our dynamic. It’s another platform for our players to shine, to prove their quality, and to give their best not just for Pirates, but for their nations.

“We’ll keep working with those who are here. It’s a vital period for them to maintain their competitive edge because I need everyone. You win matches with 11 players, but you win trophies with a full squad,” Ouaddou concluded.

After the international break, Bucs will be away playing St Eloi Lupopo of the Democratic Republic of Congo in the first leg of the second Preliminary Round of the CAF Champions League. An aggregate winner will advance to the group stage of the annual competition.