Ouaddou: Pirates ready to defend MTN8 title against Sundowns

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou says his side are well prepared for Saturday’s MTN8 final against Mamelodi Sundowns at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.

The Buccaneers are aiming to retain the trophy and claim the first silverware of the 2026/27 season when they face the South African champions.

Speaking to the media at Rand Stadium on Monday, Ouaddou said Pirates had enjoyed about two weeks to prepare for the final, although the international break disrupted their work with several players away on national-team duty.

“About our preparation, the preparation is going well. I think it’s a good event. We are really excited to play again this kind of game and to defend this title,” said the French-Moroccan coach.

“We had, of course, around two weeks to prepare for this game. Of course, we missed some of the international players, like many teams, but at least the rhythm and the focus were on that game.”

Pirates have attracted substantial support in Durban in recent seasons, and Ouaddou expects another notable occasion when two of the biggest clubs in South African football meet at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

He also stressed that the importance of the MTN8 final extends beyond the two competing teams, saying the match would draw interest from football supporters throughout the continent and beyond.

‘A game for football lovers’

“And especially, what a fantastic event we are playing in Durban. We know it’s a city where we have a lot of support,” he said.

“We are playing a game with two champions, two champions, fantastic event for the country, for all the lovers of football.

“And, of course, our aim is just to go into that game with a big ambition, willing to do well, to show the best face of Pirates. And, of course, to give a very good image of football in South Africa.”

Ouaddou believes Pirates and Sundowns must produce a final that reflects the MTN8’s wider audience.

“I think what is important is the MTN8 Cup is watched all over the continent, let’s say even in the world,” he said.

“So, it’s important for the two teams to give a very good image of football.

“Very excited, very excited on my side. I feel a very good energy from our players, from the technical staff.

“And we are waiting for our international players to come back to finalise the preparation and to play that game.”

The return of those players will give Ouaddou the opportunity to complete his preparations before Saturday’s final.

Pirates will hope their recent momentum and experience of competing in major finals will help them successfully defend the MTN8 crown against Sundowns.