Ramokadi backs Ouaddou’s call for Pirates to end showboating

Former Orlando Pirates striker Bruce Ramokadi has supported head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou’s criticism of players who showboat during matches.

Ouaddou has warned that he could leave the club if Pirates’ younger players do not stop what he considers unnecessary displays of skill.

The coach spoke out after Pirates beat Mauritius side La Cure Waves 3-1 on Saturday, September 12, 2026. The North African questioned the attitude of the young squad and objected to some of the actions seen during the game.

Ramokadi believes there is a place for dribbling in football, but says it must be used effectively rather than as a form of performance.

“Sometimes some of the things they do are unnecessary,” Ramokadi told KickOff.

“You don’t need such things when you play football at the highest level. Like any South African, I don’t mind showboating, but do it in a proper way.

“It’s unprofessional to stand on top of the ball in this day and age.”

Ramokadi said the practice highlighted a difference between aspects of South African football and the way the game is played at the highest international level.

“That’s the difference between our football and world football. We’ve been watching Lionel Messi for many years now. He has never done that and he’s the best,” he said.

The former striker used Messi as an example of how technical ability can be applied with purpose. He said the Argentina international has not stood on top of the ball, including during his youth career.

“We need positive dribbling, not this thing of standing or walking on top of the ball. I have never seen Messi stand on top of the ball. Even from his youth days, he has never done that,” Ramokadi added.

For Ramokadi, the priority should be beating an opponent or creating an advantage, rather than attempting to entertain without a clear objective.

“Dribble with a purpose, dribble to eliminate an opponent,” he said.