Ouaddou’s Pirates overcome Chiefs to claim Soweto derby victory

Abdeslam Ouaddou experienced the full range of emotions as Orlando Pirates secured a hard-fought win over Kaizer Chiefs in the Soweto derby at FNB Stadium.

The Pirates coach showed his frustration by kicking objects and loosening his tie, while at one point he was left lying face down. But his anguish turned to elation at the final whistle, when he knelt, clenched a fist and pointed towards the heavens.

Orlando Pirates entered the match as arguably the most exciting side in domestic football since the start of the season. Their meeting with arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs represented the club’s second major test, after the 2-0 defeat by Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 final.

Another loss would have been particularly painful. This was not only a contest for three points, but also a battle for local bragging rights.

Chiefs produced a strong first-half display despite an early setback, when Wandile Duba missed an opportunity and Yanela Mbuthuma put Pirates ahead. The hosts responded when Pule Mmodi reacted quickest after Sipho Chaine failed to hold a save, stabbing the ball into the net.

Kaizer Chiefs created numerous chances to take control before the break, repeatedly exploiting space with well-timed runs. Orlando Pirates’ problems were partly caused by Ouaddou’s system, which deployed Deon Hotto at right-back rather than in his preferred left-back role.

Pirates also lacked authority in midfield. Lebohang Maboe and Sibongiseni Mthethwa were able to dictate play with relative ease, yet Chiefs could not convert their dominance into further goals. The teams therefore went into half-time level at 1-1.

The opening 45 minutes underlined that Pirates are still some way from being a fully balanced team. Their younger players must develop the composure required to perform in high-pressure matches if the club is to maintain its position as a leading force.

However, Ouaddou has clearly instilled a resilience in his squad. Even when placed under severe pressure, Pirates continued to fight, and they regained the lead in the second half through Tshepang Moremi.

Ouaddou then introduced Mthetheleli Mthiyane and Mpho Padime for their derby debuts, seemingly believing his side had begun to turn the tide. Mthiyane endured a difficult introduction, giving the ball away several times, while Padime made a more positive contribution.

The manager’s frustration was not solely the result of Pirates failing to execute their plans. Chiefs were also allowing their opponents opportunities and appeared vulnerable.

Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz struggled to influence the second half. Although he recognised that his team had lost intensity with 30 minutes still remaining, he waited until the 75th minute to make tactical changes.

That delay appeared to expose the absence of a Plan B and a reluctance to take risks. In a derby, the result remains more important than the size of the scoreline, with victory, a draw or defeat carrying the real significance.

Ultimately, Orlando Pirates held on to win. Ouaddou celebrated with the players and supporters after the final whistle, even displaying some slick dance moves as he enjoyed the reward for a demanding victory.

The result showed the fighting spirit within his team, while also making clear that Pirates still have considerable room for improvement.