“I’m a happy man” —Abdel Salam Ouaddou celebrates Orlando Pirates’ historic domestic treble

Orlando Pirates coach Abdel Salam Ouaddou has shared his excitement after guiding his outfit to a historic domestic treble following South African league title success.

The Moroccan coach celebrated a memorable achievement after Pirates defeated Orbit College 2-0 in the final round of the season to officially end the dominance of Mamelodi Sundowns and reclaim the league crown for the first time since 2011-12.

Speaking after the triumph, Ouaddou described the moment as incredibly special for both himself and the club’s supporters.

“A great day for all Orlando Pirates fans,” the Moroccan tactician said after the final whistle.

“I think the players have achieved something incredible, 14 years to win the treble, not just the title but the treble.”

The title completed an extraordinary campaign for Orlando Pirates, who also lifted the South African Cup and League Cup to secure a domestic treble.

Ouaddou praised everyone involved in the club’s success, insisting the achievement was the result of collective hard work throughout a demanding season.

“We must give credit to our players, the coaching staff, the analysis team, the medical staff, and the people at the club who work behind the scenes,” he said.

The former Moroccan international also expressed gratitude to the club’s management for placing their trust in him and giving him the opportunity to coach one of Africa’s biggest football institutions.

“I just want to thank the club management for giving me this opportunity to lead such a big club, and for giving me the chance to work in one of the best leagues in Africa and in a wonderful country as well. I am a happy man today.”

Despite the celebrations, Ouaddou admitted the decisive match was far from comfortable, especially during the early stages when nerves affected his young team.

“I think we were a little nervous at the beginning, and we didn’t have control of the game. We missed some opportunities, which is understandable, because our team is young, as we have the third youngest team in the league,” he explained.

However, the Pirates coach was delighted with the improvement his side showed after halftime.

“The second half was very good in terms of performance. Of course, we were able to take advantage of opportunities and score goals, and we gave the title to this whole club.”

The triumph represents one of the greatest moments in Orlando Pirates’ recent history, with the club finally ending a 14-year wait for league glory while also breaking Sundowns’ dominance in South African football.

Ouaddou’s success also places him in the history books as the first Arab coach to lead Orlando Pirates to the league title.

Although celebrations continue among supporters, the Moroccan coach hinted that the physically and emotionally draining season could lead to important discussions regarding his future.

“For me, I work with passion and love. It’s very difficult to manage a big club like this. It’s been an extremely difficult season and I’m tired,” he admitted.

“Leading a team of this size requires a lot of energy. I will sit down, think, and discuss the matter with the management. But I need energy and strength, and without that it will be difficult to continue.”