Abdeslam Ouaddou questions Kaizer Chiefs after Soweto derby draw

Abdeslam Ouaddou has criticised Kaizer Chiefs following their 1-1 draw with Orlando Pirates in the Soweto derby, expressing frustration over what he described as time-wasting and a lack of ambition from the opposition.

The result proved costly for Orlando Pirates in their push for the Betway Premiership title, with the club missing the opportunity to gain ground in the closing stages of the season.

Pirates last won the league in the 2011/12 campaign, and remain determined to end that long wait for silverware.

Despite the setback, Pirates remain top of the table with 59 points, holding a one-point advantage over second-placed Mamelodi Sundowns.

However, Sundowns have a game in hand after being held to a draw by Richards Bay on the same day.

Speaking after the derby, Ouaddou expressed dissatisfaction with what he felt was a defensive and time-conscious approach from Chiefs.

“I saw a lot of Kaizer Chiefs players collapse. I can’t say if they were tired or just looking to waste time, because it seems like that draw was a fantastic result for them,” said the Pirates coach.

He added that, in his view, the result should not have been accepted so comfortably by Chiefs, given their stature in South African football.

“For a club of this stature, I think they should be as disappointed as we are, because I really feel like we let two points slip away. And I think they should feel the same way, but I saw that they were very happy with just one point.”

The fixture left Pirates reflecting on missed opportunities, as attention now turns to their upcoming schedule. Ouaddou’s side will next face Stellenbosch FC at Athlone Stadium on Tuesday, 5 May, as they look to maintain their position at the top of the table.

Meanwhile, Sundowns are set to play their postponed fixture against Polokwane City, a match that could see them move ahead in the title race depending on the result.