Ouaddou Unhappy Despite Pirates’ First League Win This Season Against Stellenbosch

• Abdeslam Ouaddou has opened up on the reason why he was not happy despite Orlando Pirates' win over Stellenbosch FC in the Betway Premiership
• The Soweto giants earned their first win in the South African league this season against the Stellies after back-to-back losses against Sekhukhune United and Marumo Gallants
• The former Marumo Gallants head coach also discussed his tactical approach against Steve Barker's side at the Orlando Stadium

Orlando Pirates head coach has explained why he was not completely satisfied despite the Buccaneers' victory over Stellenbosch FC in the Betway Premiership ahead of their second-leg MTN8 semi-final clash against Mamelodi Sundowns.

The Moroccan tactician, who was appointed as Jose Riveiro's replacement this summer, led the Soweto giants to their first win in the Betway Premiership this season against Stellies, thanks to a beautiful first-half goal from Kamogelo Sebelebele at the Orlando Stadium on Wednesday night.

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Ouaddou explained why he was unhappy against Stellies

Speaking to the media, Ouaddou expressed his delight over the victory, particularly for the fans who had been waiting for the team's first league win of the season.

“Absolutely, I’m thrilled, especially for our supporters,” the former Moroccan international said in an interview with SuperSport TV.

“They’ve been waiting patiently for this win over the past few weeks, so my first thoughts go out to them.”

The former Marumo Gallants head coach also praised the Buccaneers’ players for their resilience and determination to secure all three points against Stellies.

“Credit to the players, they showed real character today. Our first-half performance was very encouraging. We created several clear-cut chances, and honestly, we could’ve sealed the result much earlier.”

However, Ouaddou wasn’t fully satisfied with the overall performance, noting a drop-off in the second half.

“After the break, we lost control of the game a bit. We lost our grip, which is something we need to address. If we want to grow as a team and aim higher, we can’t afford to lose control like that after such a strong start,” he added.

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He went on to discuss his tactical approach: “I’m focused on a structured, positional style of play, finding space between the lines and managing the flow of the game,” he concluded.

"In modern football, it’s not just about holding the ball, but also how you adapt to what the opposition gives you. The players recognised the open spaces well today. We need to keep evolving our game and add more variety to our approach. Overall, it was a good display.”

The former Moroccan international would hope his Pirates side won't make the same mistake when they take on Mamelodi Sundowns in the second leg of their MTN8 clash this weekend.

Ouaddou backs Bafana star amid goal drought criticism

Briefly News also reported that Ouaddou defended a South African international amid criticism due to his lack of goals this season.

The former Fulham United midfielder believes the Bafana Bafana star would do well this campaign despite poor start.

Source: Briefly News