Abdeslam Ouaddou targets Soweto derby win to revive Orlando Pirates’ momentum

Abdeslam Ouaddou says victory in the Soweto derby could restore confidence to Orlando Pirates after back-to-back defeats.

Pirates face rivals Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium on Saturday at 15:30 in the first league meeting of the 2025-26 season, with both sides seeking a response following recent setbacks.

Pirates head into the derby having lost to Mamelodi Sundowns in the Betway Premiership and to Casric Stars in the Nedbank Cup.

Chiefs have also endured consecutive defeats, falling to Zamalek SC in the CAF Confederation Cup and to Stellenbosch FC in league action.

For Ouaddou, the derby offers an opportunity to shift momentum.

“It’s always a special moment to experience a first derby, we do everything we can to try and win it and we know how important it is for the fans, how important it is for the players,” said the Pirates’ coach.

“And that can really help you settle in and give confidence to the players, especially on our side in our current position. So, this derby will be very important for us.”

Pirates sit second in the table on 38 points, level with defending champions Sundowns at the top of the standings.

A positive result would not only strengthen their title ambitions but also reinforce belief within the squad after a challenging spell.

Recent history may provide encouragement. The Buccaneers have not lost a league match to Chiefs since February 2023 and completed league doubles over their rivals in each of the past two seasons.

With both teams aiming to halt losing runs and assert themselves early in the campaign, Saturday’s derby carries added weight beyond local pride, as momentum and confidence are also at stake.