Abdeslam Ouaddou keeps Pirates focus on Casric despite derby build-up

Orlando Pirates F.C. coach Abdeslam Ouaddou says his side’s full attention is on their cup tie with Casric Stars F.C., insisting the looming Soweto derby will not distract preparations.

Pirates host the Motsepe Foundation Championship outfit at the Orlando Stadium in a Nedbank Cup round-of-16 match on Saturday evening.

The fixture comes days before a high-profile league meeting with rivals Kaizer Chiefs F.C., a game widely viewed as significant in the Betway Premiership title race.

Ouaddou said his immediate priority is progressing in the cup rather than looking ahead to the derby.

“For me, what matters most right now is the Casric Stars. If I start thinking about and preparing for the game against the Kaizer Chiefs, which will also be very important, I think we risk underestimating Casric Stars – and that’s exactly what we want to avoid,” said the Bucs coach.

He stressed that the knockout competition demands full concentration.

“Match after match, we want to stay focused on the cup, because the Nedbank Cup represents a major challenge for the club and for us.

We don’t want to get distracted, so we’re going to prepare very well for this match, which won’t be easy. Then we’ll have time to think about this crucial match for the title race.”

Ouaddou also warned against complacency, pointing to Casric’s performances in the second tier as evidence of their threat.

“We know that Casric Stars is a very competitive team in their league. I believe they are fourth in the standings, they have scored 20 goals, I think, and conceded 15. This proves that it is a team that possesses qualities,” he added.

He reiterated the unpredictable nature of cup football and the need for professionalism.

“But for us, it is obviously essential to take this match very seriously. I often repeat, there are no more small teams, especially in the cup: a supposedly weaker team can surprise you if you don’t put in the effort, commitment and seriousness that the cup demands.

“Of course, we’re playing at home, which is an advantage, but we’ll need to prepare well. We’re really looking forward to this match.

We’re fortunate to have a quick run of games after the defeat against Mamelodi Sundowns F.C., and it’s very important to have matches close together to get back on track quickly.”

The Pirates coach’s message reflects a deliberate focus on the immediate challenge, with cup progression taking precedence before attention turns to the decisive league encounter.