Ouaddou tells Orlando Pirates critics: ‘Let me do my work’

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has asked critics to give him time to carry out his work after his side beat Kaizer Chiefs 2-1 in the Soweto Derby on Saturday.

The victory moved the Buccaneers to the top of the Premiership ahead of Mamelodi Sundowns, extended their winning run to five matches in all competitions and maintained their unbeaten league record.

Ouaddou acknowledged that Kaizer Chiefs controlled the first half and had the better of the overall play, but said Orlando Pirates showed their true character after the interval following tactical adjustments and substitutions.

“Yes, it was a derby and we know the spirit of the derby. I think each team had its half. Kaizer Chiefs had the first half, but unfortunately they did not take their chances,” Ouaddou told SuperSport TV.

“In the second half, we came with a different intention. We made changes, both in terms of the players and tactically. We saw the real face of Pirates in the second half. The team was resilient and solid, able to play, sell the game and score. These are the values of Pirates.”

The win also provided a birthday present for Ouaddou, who turns 48 on 1 November.

“It is a fantastic gift for me because 1 November will be my birthday. I will be 48 – I am getting old,” he said. “It is a fantastic gift. Well done to the boys and well done to the fans. They deserve it, and I am a happy coach.”

Hotto change fails to work

One of the match’s surprises was experienced defender Deon Hotto starting at right-back rather than in his usual left-back position.

Ouaddou said the experiment had not worked and explained that Hotto was moved back to the left side during the second half.

“When I told you about a surprise, it was Hotto at right-back, but I cannot say that it was successful,” he said.

“We tried it because he has experience and has played at left-back. We thought he might provide a solution at right-back, but it was not successful, which is why we changed it afterwards.”

The coach said Orlando Pirates would continue to pursue an efficient and aggressive approach, while accepting that performances would not always be perfect.

“In modern football, you have to be efficient and ruthless, and you have to finish your chances. That is the identity I am trying to give Pirates,” Ouaddou said.

“Sometimes we are able to play good football and sometimes we are not. But what we cannot lack is fighting spirit, solidity and the ability to score goals – always with humility.”

Ouaddou also responded to those who have questioned his decisions since taking charge of the Buccaneers.

“Sometimes people who have played football at a high level see things that you cannot read in a book; you only understand them if you have played football,” he said.

“Sometimes people judge, but please, let me do my work.”