Johannesburg — Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has come out strongly in defence of his players after sections of supporters labelled the team as “overrated.”
The Buccaneers, who are still adapting to life under their new coach, have shown gradual improvement following a shaky start to the season. Despite collecting trophies in recent years, Pirates have fallen short where it matters most — the DStv Premiership title and the CAF Champions League, with Mamelodi Sundowns asserting dominance both domestically and on the continent.
That track record has left some critics doubting whether Pirates truly belong among Africa’s elite, but Ouaddou is having none of it.
“My players are not overrated”
Speaking ahead of the CAF Champions League preliminary round return leg against Lioli at the Orlando Stadium, Ouaddou urged his players to prove their quality.
“Tomorrow, I really want my players to show their superiority. I want them to also show the level of Orlando Pirates because I cannot accept as a coach that we are insulting my players to say that we are overrated. My players are not overrated,” Ouaddou said, as quoted by FARPost.
The Buccaneers already hold a commanding advantage after securing a 3-0 away victory in the first leg. Kick-off for the second leg is scheduled for 15:00 on Saturday, with the match to be broadcast live on SABC1.
Proving continental pedigree
Ouaddou went further, stressing that Pirates should be recognised among Africa’s top clubs.
“We are Orlando Pirates. This is one of the best clubs. We are also one of the best clubs on the continent. Tomorrow I’m expecting a lot of motivation from my players just to show really the level we’re on.”
Pirates come into the fixture on a seven-match winning streak across all competitions, and victory on Saturday would only strengthen their case as serious contenders on the continental stage.
What’s at stake
For Ouaddou, Saturday’s match is about more than just advancing to the next round. It’s about silencing doubters, proving that Orlando Pirates can compete with the best, and laying down a marker for the season ahead.
