Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou says his team will need to dig deep and address their recent shortcomings if they are to beat Sekhukhune United in the second leg of their MTN8 semi-final at Orlando Stadium on Saturday (3pm).
Pirates beat Sekhukhune 2–0 in the Betway Premiership at home, moving to 10 points from a possible 12 and ensuring their title defence started on a strong note.
However, Ouaddou was still unhappy with his team’s performance. He felt they lacked fluidity and were disjointed in midfield, where they were expected to operate as a well-oiled machine.
Pirates’ strong form across all competitions – remaining unbeaten in the league and progressing through the MTN8 – has come despite several setbacks.
They have faced a long injury list, including Thalente Mbatha, Evidence Makgopa, Sihle Nduli, and assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi. They have also had to adapt to key player departures, including Relebohile Mofokeng, Sipho Mbule, and Patrick Maswanganyi.
Ouaddou knows there will be no room for excuses when they host Babina Noko in the third instalment of their recent series of meetings, emphasising that quick solutions are required to secure a place in the final.
“I know that it won’t be easy to qualify for the final,” Ouaddou said. “If we don’t find solutions in three days, it can be very difficult. We need to rest, work with the players to identify where we could have done better, and come back stronger.”
Pirates confirmed Maswanganyi’s departure following his move to Bahrain Premier League side Al-Khaldiya SC. Ouaddou addressed his previous friction with the midfielder, noting that initial disagreements stemmed from expectations in training.
“I think he’s a talented player that every coach would like to have in his team,” Ouaddou said. “It took time for him to understand what I expected of him last season regarding his involvement in games and training.
“Matches do not start on matchday; they start at the beginning of the week. Training is crucial, and I wasn’t satisfied with his application last season.”
However, Ouaddou noted that Maswanganyi returned for pre-season in Marbella with a renewed attitude, leading to a much improved relationship and stronger performances.
“He returned on June 24 with a fantastic attitude,” Ouaddou said. “He was fresh, and everyone saw his potential at the start of the season. If he had adopted that mindset earlier, I believe he could have made the World Cup squad. I wish him the best in his new project.”
While Ouaddou expressed disappointment at losing Maswanganyi, he highlighted striker Boitumelo Radiopane’s performance after he scored on his first start of the season against Sekhukhune.
“The main positive is taking the three points and seeing Radiopane score,” Ouaddou said. “I am very happy for him. That goal will give him confidence, and he offers the exact qualities we need from a striker.”
