Ouaddou urges Pirates to stay sharp in decisive MTN8 final moments

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou says his players must remain focused during the crucial moments of Saturday’s MTN8 final against Mamelodi Sundowns at Moses Mabhida Stadium (6pm).

Sundowns are aiming to secure a five-peat in the competition, while Pirates will draw on the confidence of having ended the Brazilians’ run of eight successive Betway Premiership titles last season.

Ouaddou, who is pursuing his second MTN8 title, believes Pirates’ performance in the opening stages and their ability to convert opportunities will be central to the outcome.

“When you speak about a final, it’s how you handle pressure, how you are consistent and resilient and defend,” he said.

“Key moments are the beginning of the game because a good start gives confidence to the team. I always say the first 15 minutes of the game are important.”

The Pirates coach also stressed that his side would need to perform effectively at both ends of the pitch if they are to succeed in a match where opportunities are likely to be limited.

“In cup games you don’t have to concede because it’s direct elimination. In the final, you don’t have many chances and those that you get you must convert,” Ouaddou said.

“It is also about how we are going to deal with key moments and how we are going to be efficient in both boxes for sustained periods of time, not just for 20 minutes.

“To achieve that you need organisation, discipline and communication.”

Pirates will have experienced figures available to help manage the occasion, including Sipho Chaine, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Deon Hotto, Makhehleni Makhaula, Oswin Appollis and Evidence Makgopa.

Ouaddou said those senior players would be expected to support the younger members of the squad, while also ensuring the team retains the creativity needed to influence the final.

“Senior players must guide the young ones because you need leaders in every line but also the freshness because you cannot only defend for the entire match,” he said.

“You need creativity in these kinds of matches. The last finals that Orlando Pirates played, in every game we had one or two players who were able to bring us creativity and change the game.

“It’s all these things that you will need in the final, but the most important is to trust yourself and believe in your capacity.”

Although Pirates have one of the youngest squads, Ouaddou said he remained satisfied with the team’s preparations and mentality ahead of the final.

“When you have one of the youngest teams, there are pros and cons but I am happy and confident with the team. They have shown ambition and we are in a good mood.”