Orlando Pirates’ Soweto derby win gives Champions League boost, says Ouaddou

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou believes the intensity of Saturday’s 2-1 Soweto derby victory over Kaizer Chiefs provided an ideal rehearsal for the CAF Champions League group stage.

The Buccaneers overcame a strong challenge from Amakhosi at a sold-out FNB Stadium, with Yanela Mbuthuma and Tshepang Moremi scoring the goals that secured victory.

Pirates will face Simba SC, RS Berkane and Colombe Sportive in the group stage, and Ouaddou said the atmosphere and demands of the derby closely matched what his side can expect in continental competition.

“If I have to rate this game, yes, it was a Champions League game,” Ouaddou said at his post-match news conference.

“You see the intensity, the magnitude, and the fans; it was a Champions League game, let’s say it like that.”

The coach admitted Kaizer Chiefs controlled the opening period and had opportunities to decide the match before half-time. Pirates, however, responded after the interval, with tactical adjustments helping them turn the contest in their favour.

“Kaizer Chiefs had the first half to kill the game, and after that, we had our second half,” Ouaddou said.

The result was particularly welcome for Pirates after they recently lost the MTN8 final to Mamelodi Sundowns. Ouaddou praised his players and supporters for their contribution to the derby win.

“Well done for the boys, well done for the fans, they deserve it, and I’m a happy coach,” he said.

Ouaddou also commended the organisers for staging a match that he described as an example for football across the continent. He highlighted the way supporters from both clubs shared the stadium despite the rivalry between them.

“Well done to the organisers. I’m very proud when I see such an event in SA. It’s really an example and a model that many African countries must follow.

“What a derby! There is no fighting, and everybody’s watching the game together. It’s the first time I’ve seen this in my life. Of course there is rivalry, but the fans are watching together. It’s just fantastic and unique to SA.”

Ouaddou backs Chiefs progress

Ouaddou, who turned 48 on Sunday, also praised Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz and his technical staff for the progress being made at Naturena.

Although Pirates claimed the derby points, Ouaddou said Chiefs should not be dismissed as contenders for the title. He believes the club has a strong squad, promising young players and a clear direction under its current coaching team.

“What I can tell you is that, seeing the game from outside, the technical staff of Kaizer Chiefs are doing a great job.

“We must let them work on implementing their game model. Kaizer Chiefs have a very good team and very good young players. In my opinion, they’re on the right path. We don’t have to rule them out of the title race. This is a big club with big fans.”