Moroccan coach Abdeslam Ouaddou guides Orlando Pirates to first league triumph in 14 years

Former Moroccan international Abdeslam Ouaddou has achieved a major milestone in his managerial career after leading Orlando Pirates to the 2025/26 Betway Premiership title, bringing an end to Mamelodi Sundowns’ eight-year reign at the top of South African football.

Pirates End Long Wait for League Glory

The Buccaneers sealed the championship on Saturday with a convincing 2-0 win over Orbit College, securing the club’s first league title in 14 years and the 10th top-flight crown in their history.

Ouaddou, who was appointed head coach in July 2025, made an immediate impact at Pirates by turning the side into one of the most reliable teams in the division. The former Moroccan defender oversaw a campaign built on defensive solidity and clinical attacking football, helping the club edge past Sundowns in one of the tightest title races South Africa has witnessed in recent seasons.

Domestic Treble Caps Remarkable Campaign

The league triumph crowned an outstanding domestic season for Pirates, who also lifted the MTN8 and Carling Knockout trophies to complete an impressive domestic treble.

During the campaign, Ouaddou consistently highlighted resilience and competitiveness as key elements behind the team’s success. Earlier in the season, he described the fierce contest with Sundowns as a healthy boost for South African football, insisting that the battle for the title had brought renewed excitement to the league after years of dominance by a single club.

Moroccan Coach Continues to Rise

Ouaddou’s achievement further strengthens the growing reputation of Moroccan coaches across African football. Having already earned recognition during his playing days with the Moroccan national team and in European football, the 47-year-old is now emerging as one of the continent’s most exciting North African managers.