Orlando Pirates coach Ouaddou refuses to rule Kaizer Chiefs out of league title race

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has backed Kaizer Chiefs to remain contenders for the Betway Premiership title despite suffering a 2-1 defeat to his side in Saturday’s Soweto derby.

The Moroccan tactician made the unexpected admission after watching his Pirates outfit secure a hard-fought victory over their bitter rivals at the FNB Stadium, insisting that Kaizer Chiefs have the quality and potential to challenge for the league crown this season.

Despite claiming maximum points, Ouaddou was full of praise for Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz and his technical team, urging supporters and observers to give them sufficient time to implement their football philosophy.

The Pirates manager believes the Amakhosi are moving in the right direction and should not be written off in the title conversation, particularly given the quality of players at their disposal.

“In my opinion, they’re on the right path. We don’t have to rule them out of the title race,” Ouaddou said.

The Soweto derby produced an entertaining contest, with both sides displaying attacking intent in their quest for local bragging rights.

Yanela Mbuthuma gave Orlando Pirates the lead before Pule Mmodi restored parity for Kaizer Chiefs. However, Tshepang Moremi struck in the 55th minute to hand the Buccaneers all three points and extend their impressive run in the league.

The victory further strengthened Pirates’ position in the title race, with Ouaddou’s men recording their seventh consecutive league win.

Orlando Pirates currently occupy second position on the Betway Premiership standings with 25 points from nine matches, just one point behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, who have played a game more.

Kaizer Chiefs, meanwhile, remain fifth with 14 points as they continue their pursuit of consistency in the competition.

Although the Soweto derby defeat represents a setback for the Amakhosi, Ouaddou’s comments suggest he remains convinced that Da Cruz’s side have enough quality to mount a serious challenge for the league title as the season progresses.