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

• Orlando Pirates mentor Abdeslam Ouaddou has commented on the Buccaneers' victory over Stellenbosch FC in the MTN8 final
• The Moroccan tactician wrote his name in the history books after leading the Sea Robbers to a record of four successive MTN8 titles
• The former Marumo Gallants coach's reaction sparked different comments from netizens on social media

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.

The former Marumo Gallants coach, who was appointed as Jose Riveiro's replacement, was criticised by fans when he opened the league season with back-to-back defeats, and there were calls for him to be sacked before the game against Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 semi-final.

The Moroccan tactician has gone on to save his job by leading the team to consecutive victories and winning their fourth successive MTN8 title this weekend at the Mbombela Stadium on Saturday, September 13, 2025.

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Ouaddou hits back at critics

Ouaddou shared his thoughts after winning his first title as Orlando Pirates coach this weekend. The North African mentor hit back at critics who called him names when he was struggling at the start of the season.

He explained that once the match went beyond 90 minutes, he and his staff quickly changed their approach. They targeted the wide areas and added 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 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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Ouaddou's comments after the game gathered reactions from Pirates fans and neutrals on social media.

Reactions as Ouaddou hits at critics

Nonkwali said:

"Oh come on you still a plumber nothing new here."

KingPin_Mathe wrote:

"Funny thing is that it was mostly his fan base that called him those names after he lost the 2 games 🤣🤣🤣🤣"

EnigmaNjayam shared:

"😂 former international player being called a plumber. This hate for plumbers is not good."

ka_madesi commented:

"Yes he’s still a plumber. We had to select players for him after those two losses."

Wami Msibi reacted:

"Lol🤣🤣🤣😂😂yeah he is still a plumber or a carpenter. In just two seasons fan will be begging him not to go. This is a proper coach. His tactics, selection,passion& the other capabilities are👌. I think he is ahead of jose."

Tar Sthe added:

"He's telling the truth. That premium plumber called Miguel Cardoso is the reason why Pirates won this pre-season trophy."

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Mbule savours first Pirates trophy

Briefly News earlier reported that Sipho Mbule reacted after winning his first title with Orlando Pirates this weekend.

The former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder joined the Bucs in the summer and has been one of their best players so far this season.

Source: Briefly News