Orlando Pirates boss Abdeslam Ouaddou prioritises CAF Champions League after early exit

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou says the CAF Champions League is a major priority for the club after their disappointing early exit from last season’s competition.

The Buccaneers were eliminated in the second preliminary round last term, and Ouaddou has stressed the importance of making a stronger impression during the 2026/27 campaign.

Pirates begin their continental challenge on Sunday when they travel to face Mauritian champions La Cure Waves in the first preliminary round. Their opening tie comes as the club continues an impressive start to the domestic season.

The South African club are top of the Betway Premiership after collecting 13 points from their first five matches. They have also secured a place in the MTN8 final for a fifth consecutive year, where they will meet Mamelodi Sundowns on 10 October.

However, Ouaddou insists the Champions League must take precedence for now, with Pirates having several matches to play before they turn their attention to the MTN8 final.

“We have some games before that [MTN8], I think it’s the Champions League,” said Ouaddou.

“It’s one competition that is very important for us, especially when we know last season when we went out quickly.

“So, for us, it’s really, really important. And after, we will have time to think to the MTN8.”

Pirates’ campaign will start against La Cure Waves, with the first preliminary round representing the beginning of their bid to progress further than they managed last season.

The club’s strong domestic form has increased expectations around the team, but Ouaddou’s comments underline the significance attached to continental football. His focus is currently on ensuring Pirates are prepared for their first CAF Champions League fixture before considering the MTN8 final.

The meeting with Mamelodi Sundowns will come on 10 October, but Pirates must first negotiate their opening Champions League tie away from home. The club have again identified success in the competition as an important objective after last season’s swift departure.

Pirates have therefore begun the new campaign with three clear targets already in view: maintaining their position at the top of the Betway Premiership, competing in the MTN8 final and making progress in the CAF Champions League.

The iDiski Times Digital Newspaper is completely free. Readers can download it by clicking the button below or fill in the form to have it sent to them every week.

Also read: Breaking: Pirates’ Sign Former Star