Ouaddou Hits Back at Critics After MTN8 Success, Praises Stellenbosch and Barker

Ouaddou Hits Back at Critics After MTN8 Success, Praises Stellenbosch and Barker

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou credited his side’s extra-time tactical adjustments for their 3-0 victory over Stellenbosch in the MTN8 final, but insisted the result doesn’t make him a better coach than he was a few months ago.

He explained that once the match went beyond 90 minutes, he and his staff quickly changed their approach by targeting the wide areas and adding pace on the wings to create more opportunities from crosses.

The introduction of Tshegofatso Mabasa, who thrives inside the box rather than pressing high up like Makgopa, proved decisive, while the fresh energy of Tshepang Moremi and Appollis also made an impact.

Ouaddou was humble in his assessment, saying the win doesn’t suddenly elevate his coaching status, and that many may still view him as a “plumber or carpenter.”

He emphasised that he does not consider himself superior to Stellenbosch boss Steve Barker, praising him as an excellent coach with a well-run, professional club. He concluded by expressing his joy at securing the trophy with Orlando Pirates.

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Source: Briefly News

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Raphael Abiola avatar

Raphael Abiola (Sports editor) Raphael Abiola is a Nigerian Sports Journalist with over seven years of experience. He obtained a B.Tech degree in Computer Science from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, in 2015. Raphael previously worked as a football editor at Stakegains (2016-2018) and a content editor with Opera News Nigeria (2018-2023). Raphael then worked as an Editor for the Local Desk at Sports Brief (2023-2024). Reach him via email at raphael.abiola@sportsbrief.com.