Ouaddou demands discipline as young Orlando Pirates side closes Sundowns gap

Abdeslam Ouaddou praised Orlando Pirates’ disciplined approach after their 2-0 victory over Durban City reduced the gap to Betway Premiership leaders Mamelodi Sundowns to four points.

Pirates secured the win at Orlando Stadium on Thursday night, but their coach was particularly encouraged by the quality of their second-half display.

Ouaddou said the performance reflected the kind of efficient, intelligent football he expects from his young squad. He had been critical of their showboating during the 3-1 victory over their previous opponents in the CAF Champions League group stage qualifiers.

His comments about the team’s youthful players were not universally welcomed. Some observers considered him too demanding and questioned his commitment to the project, especially after he repeatedly threatened to stop training, pack his bags and leave the club if standards did not improve.

Speaking at his post-match press conference, Ouaddou said he would keep his remarks brief because some of his previous explanations had been taken out of context. He then pointed to the performance of Simphiwe Masilela as an example of what he wants from his attacking players.

“We have a young team, and there are pros and cons,” Ouaddou said. “When you are young and have the freshness to repeat efforts, it’s what I like.

“If you saw Masilela today, (I was happy). I am not asking for myself. This is the football that I like. This is the high level. I push him to be efficient like that, and play pure football. He must leave other things aside. I am happy!”

The coach accepted that mistakes are inevitable but insisted players must take responsibility for them if they are to develop.

“My job as the coach is to improve players – young players – to play this kind of football,” he said. “Yes, they can commit mistakes. If you are playing higher up as a midfielder or striker, then it’s fine. But if you are a defender, then there’s only the goalkeeper to help.

“Sometimes, we have to accelerate development. Personally, the way I was developed is how I develop them. It’s how I pushed (Lebone) Seema last season.

“If, psychologically, you are ready to accept when the coach is a little bit hard on you, you are going to improve. But if you are weak psychologically because the coach is hard on you, (then you won’t go far).”

Ouaddou, who spent much of his playing career abroad, said he wanted his players to reach the same level and help Pirates compete for major honours.

“I am not shouting at my players because I want to kill them; I want them to be the best, keep winning titles with Pirates, and maybe sign with clubs in Europe. If I see them playing well, I am the happiest coach. Today, I was happy with the young players,” he said.

“If you see me coming here wearing a clown uniform, know that something is wrong. I am training and training. I want and am happy to train highly professional players. Today, I had professionals.”