Ouaddou says Orlando Pirates have ‘no nerves’ ahead of African Stars tie

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou says his players are free of nerves as they prepare to face African Stars of Namibia in the second leg of their CAF Champions League second preliminary round tie.

The Buccaneers take a 1-0 lead into tonight’s match at home after winning the first leg in Botswana, but must still complete the job to reach the next round of Africa’s premier club competition.

Pirates were knocked out at the same stage last season by FC Saint-Eloi Lupopo, despite recovering from a 3-0 first-leg defeat to win 3-0 at Orlando Stadium. The tie finished 3-3 on aggregate before Pirates were eliminated in a penalty shootout.

Ouaddou, speaking to the media at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Thursday as his team completed preparations, said last season’s disappointment would not affect the players ahead of another decisive home match.

“I think it should not be, because the players are ready, they know exactly what they have to do. I think a lot of confidence, a lot of trust, it’s very important,” he said.

The coach stressed the importance of sticking to the team’s approach and maintaining unity as Pirates seek to protect their narrow advantage.

“We are playing at home in front of our fans. For me, what is the most important thing is to respect the plan and to be united because in this kind of competition we need the whole team to be connected, to row on the same side together to reach the target,” Ouaddou added.

“There are no nerves, we are impatient to play that game.”

Pirates will now look to use home advantage to avoid another early exit from the competition and secure their place in the next round.