MTN8 Semi Final: Ouaddou Expresses Confidence Ahead of Pirates’ Clash With Sundowns

• Abdeslam Ouaddou is confident Orlando Pirates can defeat Mamelodi Sundowns when they travel to Pretoria for the second leg of the semi-final
• The two Premier Soccer League giants played out a 1-1 draw in the first leg of the semi-final at the Orlando Stadium last weekend
• The winner between the two Betway Premiership top sides at the Lucas Masterpiees Moripe Stadium will face either Sekhukhune United or Stellenbosch in the final of the competition

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has expressed his confidence in leading the Buccaneers to victory against Mamelodi Sundowns in the second leg of the MTN8 semi-final this weekend.

The first leg ended 1-1, with Mamelodi Sundowns leading for most of the game, thanks to Teboho Mokoena's goal. However, a late strike from Kamogelo Sebelebele ensured Orlando Pirates avoided defeat at the Orlando Stadium.

The Soweto giants are hoping they can make it four MTN8 titles in a row after winning last season's edition and began this year's competition with a win over Polokwane City, thanks to the Man of the Match performance from summer signing Oswin Appollis.

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Ouaddou confident of victory against Sundowns in Pretoria

Ouaddou speaking ahead of the second leg semi-final claimed he is sure that Pirates can get the desired result in Pretoria.

The Moroccan tactician talked about the first leg and outlined what they need to get the win against Miguel Cardoso's side this weekend.

“It was a thrilling first leg, a real showcase of top-quality football between two of the continent’s strongest sides,” said Ouaddou at the MTN8 semi-final second leg press conference held at the PSL headquarters in Parktown, Johannesburg, on Thursday.

“The match ended 1-1, but in knockout football, it often comes down to mentality. Heading into Saturday’s clash, our focus is on going in with drive and determination.”

Looking ahead to the crucial fixture against the Brazilians, Ouaddou emphasized the importance of momentum and self-belief.

“We have the talent to go out there at Lucas Moripe Stadium and deliver a performance. We know it’s going to be a tough test away from home, but we’re prepared to dig deep. This is a competition we won last season, and we’re here to defend that title. The team is motivated, focused, and ready to rise to the challenge,” he concluded.

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A win for Pirates will set them up for a showdown in the final against either Sekhukhune United or Stellenbosch, but a defeat against the Brazilians would put more pressure on Ouaddou after his rocky start at the club this season.

Ouaddou comments on Mbokazi's performance against Sundowns

Briefly News also reported that Ouaddou shared his thoughts on Mbekezeli Mbokazi's performance against Mamelodi Sundowns in the first leg of MTN8 semi-final.

The South African defender put in a top notch performance against the Brazilians, while also earning praises from his coach who believes he's ready for a move to Europe.

Source: Briefly News