Ouaddou Factor: Why Orlando Pirates Look Set to Go Far in Africa

Orlando Pirates head coach, Abdeslam Ouaddou, says his philosophy of trust, hard work, and love for the game is the foundation behind the Buccaneers’ recent resurgence.

The Moroccan tactician endured a shaky start to life in Soweto, losing his first two league games.

But since then, Ouaddou has steadied the ship, guiding the team to successfully defend their Top 8 title and brushing aside Lesotho’s Lioli with a commanding 7-0 aggregate win in the CAF Champions League.

Reflecting on his impact, the former Morocco international emphasized that his approach extends beyond tactics.

“I just trust the work that I am doing, the values that I’m putting in my work, the love that I’m putting in my job, the love that I’m putting on my players,” he said.

“And what is important as well is the trust, the trust of my club, because without trust of your management, about the board, it’s difficult. So, I thank them for that, for the trust,” he added.

Ouaddou, who earned 68 caps for Morocco and played in two CAF Africa Cup of Nations campaigns  including the memorable 2004 edition where the Atlas Lions finished runners-up, brings a wealth of experience from both African and European football.

That depth of knowledge is now proving valuable to Pirates, who bowed out in the semi-finals last season to eventual winners Pyramids FC but look stronger and more confident under his guidance.