Orlando Pirates boss Abdeslam Ouaddou gives Mpho Padime freedom to shine on debut

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou says he allowed teenage midfielder Mpho Padime to express himself during his late cameo in the Buccaneers’ 3-0 win over Sekhukhune United.

The victory secured Orlando Pirates’ place in a fifth consecutive MTN8 final, with the club completing a convincing semi-final second-leg success against Sekhukhune United.

Padime was introduced in the 84th minute to a warm reception from the home supporters. Despite having only a short time on the pitch, the midfielder displayed several impressive touches and contributed to Orlando Pirates’ third goal.

Ouaddou said Padime had been given permission to enjoy the occasion because the result was already under control.

“Look, I will be honest with you, I’m somebody who want efficiency, I want goals, clean-sheets, but at the same time like I said to the boy when he just come there went on I said, ‘my boy it’s 2-0, enjoy your football, I’ve nothing jus t enjoy your football’ sometimes you have to give this freedom to these boys,” Ouaddou told SuperSport after the game

The coach acknowledged that he normally demands a disciplined and effective approach from his players, particularly when a match remains finely balanced. However, he believes there is a place for individual expression when a team has established a comfortable advantage.

“Even, I will be honest with you, climbing on the ball, stuff like that, when it’s 0-0 or draw I don’t like that, when we’re three or four goals, I’ve to integrate myself in the culture of the country sometimes to let them the freedom.

Padime’s appearance came as Orlando Pirates confirmed their progress in the MTN8, while also giving one of the club’s younger players an opportunity to make an impression in a decisive fixture.

Ouaddou also stressed that the result would not lead to a break for him or his coaching staff. He said preparations must continue across the club’s domestic and continental commitments, with the league, MTN8 and Champions League all part of the work ahead.

“No, for me there’s no day off, since I came back on the 24th June, my focus is on the league, MTN8, Champions League, me and my staff we have to work to anticipate, plan the things because ideas are that success doesn’t come like that, you’ve to plan things so of course I’m going to watch the game,” he added.

The victory keeps Orlando Pirates on course for another MTN8 title challenge, while Ouaddou’s comments underline his intention to balance tactical efficiency with the development and confidence of young players such as Padime.