Abdeslam Ouaddou Reacts to Orlando Pirates’ Win Over Richards Bay, Sends Message to Fans

• Abdeslam Ouaddou has reflected on Orlando Pirates' narrow win over Richards Bay in the Carling Knockout Cup this weekend
• The Moroccan tactician has now guided the Soweto giants to their second domestic cup final this season
• The former Marumo Gallants head coach's comments after the match sparked reactions from fans on social media

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has reacted to the Soweto giants' hard-fought win over Richards Bay in the semi-final of the Carling Knockout Cup on Saturday, November 8, 2025.

The Sea Robbers are now in the final of the competition courtesy of a lone strike from summer signing Tshepang Moremi in the first half at a sold-out Moses Mabhida Stadium.

The Buccaneers are now on the verge of clinching another cup title this season after winning the MTN8 cup earlier this campaign after defeating Stellenbosch FC in the final.

Pirates have put behind them their elimination from the CAF Champions League as they continue to impress in domestic competitions.

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Ouaddou hails Pirates, speaks to fans

Ouaddou expressed pride in his team’s performance, acknowledging that Richards Bay had been a tough opponent. He ended the Pirates' six-year run of failing to reach the final of the Carling Knockout Cup. The last time the Sea Robbers played in the League Cup final was in the 2018-19 season.

The former Marumo Gallants head coach said that his players showed bravery and determination, emphasising that cup matches require hard work and strong team spirit.

He also praised the fans in Durban for their warm, enthusiastic support, noting that their hospitality made the occasion even more special. Ultimately, he was pleased that his side had progressed to the final.

They now await confirmation of their opponents in the final, with the second semi-final between Golden Arrows and Marumo Gallants scheduled for Sunday, November 9, at the King Zwelithini Stadium in Umlazi, which will determine their opponent.

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Here's what fans are saying about Ouaddou's comments on Pirates' win over Richards Bay.

Bongani Mgubela said:

"Yet to taste defeat in cup competitions since his arrival. Our own tactician ☠️🖤🤍🔥✊🏾."

Sir Richard wrote:

"You can tell Abdeslam has played football at the highest level, always praises the opposition, unlike those who complain about everything that flies in the sky."

Orkney_Said shared:

"He played against 11 while there were 12."

Maratadiji implied:

"He must not forget to thank match officials and Khoza."

Mfanafuthi G Radebe commented:

"It wasn’t an easy game indeed."

Sky_Gee_ reacted:

"Local team 😂😂😂I can see they are trying to stay relevant...being a CAF dropout hits hard."

Still.Unknownuser added:

"No, be honest and say you're proud of the referees."

Pirates dominate Bafana's latest squad

Briefly News also reported that Orlando Pirates dominate the Bafana Bafana squad that will face Zambia in their next match during the international break.

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Hugo Broos trimmed the preliminary squad from 43-man to a 23-man list, as they battle against the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations champions.

Source: Briefly News