Ouaddou backs Orlando Pirates youngsters Padime and Masilela to fulfil their potential

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou says he is not surprised by the emergence of teenagers Mpho Padime and Simphiwe Masilela after the pair helped the club reach a fifth successive Wafa Wafa final.

Padime and Masilela were introduced from the bench as Orlando Pirates beat Sekhukhune United 3-0 in the second leg of the MTN8 semi-final at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday. The result secured a 4-0 aggregate victory for Orlando Pirates and extended their run of four consecutive victories in the competition.

Thapelo Mokobodi, Ghampani Lungu and Kamogelo Sebelebele scored for the home side. Yanela Mbuthuma played a key role in the win, providing assists for Mokobodi and Lungu.

Mpho Padime replaced Lungu in the 83rd minute, while Simphiwe Masilela came on for Simphiwe Selepe in the 74th minute. Padime, aged 19, was making his debut for the club, while 22-year-old Masilela had already appeared in several matches for Orlando Pirates this season.

Ouaddou said the young players’ performances should not be viewed in isolation, highlighting the opportunities Orlando Pirates have continued to provide for developing talent.

“Not only him [Padime]. I think we can include Masilela in that talk [of youngsters holding their own]. Well done to both of them. Pirates is a club that gives youngsters a chance. It’s not the first year [that Bucs give youngsters a chance], and we continue the process,” Ouaddou said.

The coach said he had noticed the pair’s ability during pre-season training, which began on 24 June, and had also followed their progress in DDC matches during the previous campaign.

“Everyone can see they [Padime and Masilela] have great potential. I saw the potential when they came to start training on June 24 [after the off-season], but even last season when I watched some DDC games, I asked Roscoe [Krieling, DDC coach] and Mxolisi [Mngomezulu, who’s a scout at the club] that I wanted to see them more in training.”

Despite his confidence in the two players, Ouaddou warned them that their development would depend on their attitude and willingness to continue improving. He said early displays of promise should not lead them to become complacent.

“So, I am not surprised by the potential, but now they must keep working, stay humble, and be coachable. It’s only the start; a football career is a minimum of 10 years,” Ouaddou said.

“I will give them game time when I have to, but they still have to work and be professional because in football you can be high now but you can fall very quickly.”

Padime and Masilela are expected to be involved again when Orlando Pirates return to league action against Kruger United at Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday. Kick-off is scheduled for 19:30.