Lungu’s fast start proves Pirates made the right call, says Ouaddou

Abdeslam Ouaddou says Orlando Pirates always expected Ghampani Lungu to make an immediate impact, despite the Zambia international’s arrival attracting little attention when the transfer was announced.

Lungu scored his fourth goal in seven appearances as Orlando Pirates beat Sekhukhune United 3-0 in the second leg of their MTN8 semi-final on Tuesday night. The result sent the Buccaneers through to the final, while further underlining the value of a signing that initially generated limited fanfare.

Ouaddou rejected the idea that Lungu’s early form had come as a surprise. The coach pointed to the forward’s contribution before joining Orlando Pirates, including a hat-trick against rivals Mamelodi Sundowns last season while he was still on the books of Siwelele.

“This boy helped us to win the title last season,” he quirked. Referring to Lungu’s hattrick against rivals Mamelodi Sundowns last seasoon whilst still on the books of Siwelele.I was not surprised. When he came here, he was very excited, first of all. He was very happy to join such a big club. From last season, I think he was already part of the family. We integrated him very well, and he’s giving all his best.

The comments came after Lungu again played a decisive role in a major match for Orlando Pirates. His latest goal took his tally to four in seven appearances, giving the attacker a strong start to his time with the club.

Although the signing did not generate the same headlines as a major marquee arrival, Ouaddou said Lungu had already demonstrated the qualities required to succeed at a leading club. In the coach’s view, the player’s previous performances meant Orlando Pirates were already familiar with what he could offer.

Ouaddou also described the deliberate effort made by the club to help Lungu settle quickly. Rather than allowing the new recruit an extended period of uncertainty, he said Orlando Pirates immediately created an environment in which the player felt accepted.

“I always say that you all the time have a short time or a long time for new recruitment when you come to a new club, but we just opened our hearts when he came, and he was part of the family. It’s like he’s been here for a long time,” he added.

The coach’s explanation places Lungu’s progress within a wider team-building approach at Orlando Pirates. According to Ouaddou, the player was made to feel like part of the group from the beginning, helping him focus on his performances rather than adapting to his surroundings.

That integration has been reflected in the attacker’s output. After contributing to the victory over Sekhukhune United, Lungu has now scored four times in his first seven appearances, while Orlando Pirates have advanced to the MTN8 final.