Ouaddou faces key response as Pirates seek to recover against TS Galaxy

Orlando Pirates manager Abdeslam Ouaddou must lift his side quickly after their MTN8 final defeat by Mamelodi Sundowns, the first domestic match under his leadership in which they conceded twice without scoring.

Pirates host TS Galaxy at Orlando Amstel Arena on Tuesday, looking to respond after surrendering the trophy on Saturday. They will take confidence from their most recent meeting with Galaxy, when they scored six goals against their opponents.

The defeat also ended a notable defensive and scoring record. Before the loss to Sundowns, Pirates had played 50 domestic matches under Ouaddou without failing to score in a game in which they had conceded at least twice.

Sundowns produced a controlled display at Moses Mabhida Stadium, restricting Pirates for long periods and leaving them unable to maintain that record.

The match was also the first time in six months that Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine had been beaten twice.

The immediate challenge for Ouaddou is deciding how to change his team and restore its momentum. Evidence Makgopa could be considered to lead the attack instead of Yanela Mbuthuma, while Mohau Nkota and Oswin Appollis may be options to start on the wings.

That would allow Simphiwe Masilela to operate through the middle, although the final line-up remains one of several decisions facing the Pirates coach.

At right-back, Ouaddou may have to continue with Ghampani Lungu if Kamogelo Sebelebele is unavailable because of injury.

Pirates need all three points against TS Galaxy to remain in touch with Sundowns at the top of the table. The result will also provide an early indication of how effectively they can respond to their first major setback of the domestic campaign under Ouaddou.

Strong league record

Despite the disappointment in the MTN8 final, Ouaddou’s league record at Pirates has established a high standard.

The coach has collected 88 points from 37 matches, giving him an average of close to 2,4 points per game.

Pirates have also maintained a strong attacking return during that period, scoring an average of two goals per match.

Their defensive record has been equally impressive, with the team conceding once every three games on average.

That consistency is what Ouaddou will want to restore when Pirates face Galaxy, particularly with Sundowns setting the pace at the top. The hosts must now combine a reaction to Saturday’s defeat with the level of efficiency that has defined their league performances under the coach.