Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou sets conditions for showboating

Orlando Pirates midfielder Makhehlene Makhaula says coach Abdeslam Ouaddou is not opposed to players showing flair, provided the team has already secured the result.

Ouaddou recently criticised what he regarded as showboating during Pirates’ 3-1 victory over La Cure Waves in the first qualifying round of the CAF Champions League. The coach felt his side lost intensity after taking control of the match and became too relaxed once they had established a comfortable advantage.

Pirates appeared to adopt a more expressive approach after half-time, with players attempting to play with greater flair instead of continuing to pursue further goals. Ouaddou was unhappy with that change in attitude and stressed that his players had to remain focused on increasing their lead.

The coach was so frustrated that he threatened to walk away if the players continued in the same manner, underlining how firmly he views the issue.

Makhaula, however, believes Ouaddou’s position has been misunderstood. He says the coach’s concern is not with individual skill itself, but with when it is used during a match.

“No, no, for me, I don’t think it’s criticism or anything,” Makhaula told journalists.

“The coach is always saying to us, you can do whatever you want, but as long as the score is 4-0 and as long as whatever you’re doing, you eliminate the player.

“So, I think it’s not the criticism. The coach only wants the result and after the result, if it’s 4 or 3-0, then you can do whatever you want with the ball.”

Makhaula’s comments suggest that Ouaddou is prepared to allow his players freedom once the outcome is effectively secured, but expects them to prioritise efficiency and concentration beforehand.

Pirates prepare for Sundowns final

Pirates now face a significantly tougher assignment when they meet Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday. The match is scheduled to begin at 18:00.

The Soweto club are seeking a fifth consecutive MTN8 title, while Makhaula will hope to be included in the matchday squad after recently returning from injury.

The midfielder’s potential involvement comes as Pirates prepare for a final in which Ouaddou’s demands for discipline and intensity will again be tested against Mamelodi Sundowns.