Ouaddou: Pirates’ Champions League progress as important as Morocco at World Cup

Abdeslam Ouaddou says Orlando Pirates’ place in the CAF Champions League group stage is so significant that “Champions League without Pirates is like World Cup without Morocco”.

The Orlando Pirates coach was speaking ahead of the club’s crucial tie against African Stars, with progression to the next phase at the centre of his message.

Ouaddou used Morocco’s presence at the World Cup to underline the importance of Orlando Pirates continuing in Africa’s premier club competition. His comparison reflects the standing he believes the Bucs hold in the tournament and the impact their absence would have.

The coach’s comments come before a decisive meeting with African Stars, as Orlando Pirates seek to secure their place in the group stage of the CAF Champions League.

Ouaddou also offered further thoughts on the tie and the team’s preparations in an accompanying video.