Ouaddou praises Orlando Pirates’ response after Durban City test

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou said his team’s 2-0 victory over Durban City on Thursday evening was shaped by a difficult first half and a decisive change in approach after the interval.

The former defender gave considerable credit to Durban City, acknowledging that their tactical plan created genuine problems for Pirates before half-time.

Durban City’s use of a back five was not something Orlando Pirates had fully expected, and Ouaddou conceded that the opposition deserved to be ahead at the break. His frank assessment stood out as an unusually open reflection from a coach whose side had gone on to win.

Ouaddou explained that the half-time discussion was calm and analytical rather than emotional. The coaching staff used video to identify the spaces Pirates needed to attack and examine why their movement and combinations had not worked as intended during the opening 45 minutes.

The response after the break produced a performance Ouaddou regarded as a benchmark for the football he wants his team to play. Pirates improved their combinations, made better use of third-man runs and showed greater efficiency in front of goal as they secured the two-goal victory.

Focus on player development

The coach also spoke warmly about the progress of an emerging player who has received his first national team call-up.

Ouaddou linked that recognition to the player’s mentality, willingness to learn and response to coaching. He stressed that developing a footballer is a long-term process, while also crediting the national team coach for identifying the youngster’s ability.

His comments also revealed more about an individual development programme operating within Orlando Pirates. The specialist work is designed to address technical and cognitive areas in which young South African players can require further improvement.

The programme focuses on details including finishing, scanning and making decisions in tight spaces. Ouaddou presented those elements as part of the daily work required to turn potential into consistent performance, rather than as a short-term solution.

The press conference ended with a broader reflection on the demands of managing one of the youngest squads in the league. Ouaddou spoke about the challenge of guiding a developing group while maintaining competitive standards.

He also delivered an eye-catching line while discussing the scrutiny and unpredictability that can accompany his role: “If you see me wearing a clown uniform.”

Despite the difficulties posed by Durban City’s first-half structure, Ouaddou’s overall assessment was that the second-half display offered a clear example of the team’s intended identity and the progress being made by its young players.