Ouaddou demands more from Pirates after 3-0 Carling Knockout win

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou criticised his players for wasting chances despite their comfortable 3-0 victory over Milford FC in the Last 16 of the Carling Knockout.

The Buccaneers began their defence of the competition with a convincing win against the newly promoted KwaZulu-Natal club at Orlando Amstel Arena. However, the scoreline did little to ease Ouaddou’s frustration after his side failed to make the most of several opportunities.

The Moroccan-Frenchman said Pirates should have been even more ruthless and challenged his squad to show a clear difference in quality against their opponents.

“If we have to put eight goals against Milford, we have to show Milford that we are not playing at the same level,” Ouaddou said at his post-match press conference.

The Pirates manager also made clear that his comments were not intended to diminish Milford or head coach Dr Xanti Pupuma, saying he had great respect for both the KZN side and its coach.

Ouaddou’s main concern was the attitude he felt some of his players had shown in front of goal. He described their approach as selfish and demanded greater efficiency from the team.

“I don’t want to let people think that Pirates is only a name. We cannot say that. We can’t let people say that,” he added.

He said representing Orlando Pirates carried responsibilities that had to be reflected in every match, regardless of the opposition.

“So, it’s why I’m angry. When we wear this shirt with this badge of Pirates, you need to transform yourself in every game. I’m not here to nurse anybody. I don’t have time.”

Pirates will face Sekhukhune United in the quarter-finals of the Carling Knockout. The date and kick-off time for that match have not yet been confirmed.

Before then, the Sea Robbers will turn their attention to the Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs. The fixture is scheduled to take place at FNB Stadium on Saturday.

The meeting with Milford marked the start of Pirates’ attempt to retain the Carling Knockout title, but Ouaddou’s reaction underlined his demand for a sharper performance from his squad in the matches ahead.