We’ll fight until the end – Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou on league title battle

Head coach of Orlando Pirates Abdeslam Ouaddou has sent a strong message to title rivals after his outfit delivered a commanding 5-0 victory over Golden Arrows.

The Buccaneers were in devastating form at the Orlando Stadium on Wednesday night, producing a complete performance that underlined their growing belief and momentum as the season approaches its climax. The emphatic result ensured Pirates remain firmly in pursuit of league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, who are chasing yet another historic title.

Speaking after match, Ouaddou praised his team’s dominance across all areas of the pitch, stressing the side will fight until the end.

“Yes, you’re right, we had full control of the game in the attacking animation. In the defensive animation, I think we were dominant in all areas. So congratulations to the boys,” he told SuperSport TV.

Beyond the result, the Pirates mentor pointed to a crucial improvement that could define their title push—efficiency in the final third. Earlier in the campaign, converting chances had been a concern, but recent performances suggest that issue is being resolved at the perfect time.

“You can see that Pirates is still alive and we’re going to fight until the end whatever happens,” Ouaddou declared. “When the boys start to be efficient in the last third, we can score a lot of goals. Now they are putting the goals—I’m happy.”

The result further fuels what has now become a thrilling two-horse race between Pirates and Sundowns, with traditional contenders like Kaizer Chiefs and Sekhukhune United falling off the pace as the season has progressed.

Ouaddou welcomed the intensity of the battle at the top, describing it as a positive for South African football.

“It’s difficult—we have two teams now fighting, and I think it’s very good for the league,” he said. “For me, I always said it’s the best in Africa, so the fans deserve to have this race until the end.”

With confidence surging and goals flowing, Pirates have positioned themselves as genuine contenders. And if Ouaddou’s words are anything to go by, the Buccaneers are far from done.

“Until the last second, we will be here,” he warned.

As the title race heats up, one thing is certain—Pirates are not just chasing, they are coming.