Msendami earns Ouaddou’s backing after first Orlando Pirates goal

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou believes Daniel Msendami’s first goal for the club can prove a turning point for the Zimbabwe international after he helped the Buccaneers beat Chippa United 3-0 on Sunday.

Msendami struck late at Kings Park Stadium to complete a convincing victory for Pirates and move them to the top of the Betway Premiership table on goal difference.

The winger’s goal was particularly significant after a difficult start to his career in the black-and-white shirt. Since making his high-profile move to Mayfair, Msendami has found it challenging to establish his rhythm and secure a regular impact in his early appearances.

Ouaddou said the reaction from the rest of the Pirates squad and coaching staff showed how highly the player is regarded inside the dressing room.

“I think the behaviour of the whole team, of the technical staff to go towards him, shows how this boy is appreciated in the dressing room, how this boy has a big heart for the team.”

The coach added that Msendami had always wanted to represent the Soweto club, while acknowledging the pressures and competition that come with joining a major team.

“He’s somebody who was dreaming to play for Pirates. I know coming into a big club like that sometimes is not easy; sometimes you have to be patient because there is a lot of competition”

Despite his challenging introduction, Ouaddou said the winger had continued to work hard and was gradually beginning to show the value of his efforts.

“But he’s getting there; he’s holding on, he’s working, and we start to see the benefit of his work.”

The Pirates coach also stressed the importance of the goal for Msendami’s confidence, while making it clear that his support for the player had not depended on Sunday’s performance.

“I was very happy about his goal, and it’s very important for his confidence, but I have always had trust in him because I know him from the previous club (Marumo Gallants) and I know what he can bring to the club….”

Ouaddou believes Msendami offers qualities that differ from those of Pirates’ other attacking options and expects to use him in a variety of situations during the season.

“He has a different profile from the other ones, and I am sure we can use him for the other games.”

The victory over Chippa United leaves Orlando Pirates level with Kaizer Chiefs on seven points after three matches. Both clubs have recorded two wins and a draw, but Pirates lead the standings because of their superior goal difference.

There will be little time for Pirates to dwell on their league success, with their focus now switching to the MTN8. They face Sekhukhune United in the semi-final first leg at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday, 22 August 2026, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00.