Abdeslam Ouaddou Explains Secret Behind Orlando Pirates Good Defensive Record This Season
- Abdeslam Ouaddou has opened up on Orlando Pirates' impressive defensive record in the Betway Premership this season
- The former Marumo Gallants coach led the Soweto giants to victory against Chippa United as they continue their good form in the league
- The Sea Robbers boast of keeping seven clean sheets in their last nine matches in the league this campaign
Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has shared the secrets behind his team's solid defensive record in the Betway Premiership this season.
Source: Instagram
The Moroccan tactician joined the Soweto giants from Marumo Gallants in the summer and started on a bad note, but as the season progressed, the team became accustomed to his tactics, which led to positive results.
They won the MTN8 under Ouaddou's management, are currently in the final of the Carling Knockout Cup, but missed out on qualification for the CAF Champions League group stage after losing to Saint Eloi Lupopo in the preliminary phase.
Ouaddou discusses Pirates' defensive record
After the 2-0 victory over Chippa United at Orlando Stadium, Ouaddou was asked about his team’s solid defensive record, which he attributed to fantastic team spirit. He emphasised the importance of a clear game model for defensive play and explained that players need to understand how he wants them to defend.
The Premier Soccer League giants have kept seven clean sheets in their last nine games in the Betway Premiership.
Ouaddou said that defending is not just the responsibility of two or three players, or even the back four; for him, it is an art that requires knowing where, when, and how to recover the ball. He added that as long as all his players, whether 11 or 20, can respond in the same way at the same moment, it shows they understand exactly what he wants. This shared understanding, he said, is why his team is strong defensively.
The former Marumo Gallants mentor also highlighted that everyone in the team works hard within their defensive structure, and if even one or two players falter, it can become difficult. He praised his squad for their bravery and fantastic team spirit since the start of the season, which makes it very difficult for opponents to score against them.
Source: Instagram
The Moroccan coach will be hoping his team keeps another clean sheet when they face Durban City in a Betway Premiership match at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Saturday afternoon, with kick-off scheduled for 3:30 pm.
Here is what fans are saying about Ouaddou leading Orlando Pirates to another victory in the Betway Premiership on social media.
Vusi Nkosi said:
"The boys played good football for 95 minutes. As a supporter, I have become accustomed to seeing the team score in the last 15 minutes. These are the characteristics of a championship team like our 2011/12 teams."
_khathutshelo shared:
"Sipho Chaine, today he saved us. Sibisi & Seema playing together, you're just setting him up 😭 If we conceded that goal, I know people were gonna blame him 😭⚽️💔"
Vuka Darkie wrote:
"Deon Hotto is a wonder....what a workhorse!!!!!👌🏾👌🏾 Like every player, he will have his low games because opponents are not the same....but rest assured, he gives his all - of course he will miss some & get others right. One thing is for sure, he shows up ☠️☠️"
Zwelihle Kunene reacted:
"3 points, nothing but 3 points against Chippa. The 2-0 victory for the Buccaneers was much sweeter than bitter. Congratulations Ndod'emnyama. What a team with such innate talent❤️☠️☠️☠️"
Mr Love 1 added:
"Thank you, boys and the coach. You're really showering us with happiness 😊 now and then."
Riveiro predicts Carling Knocout Cup winner
Briefly News also reported that Jose Riveiro has predicted the team that would win the Carling Knockout Cup this season.
The competition's final would be between Riveiro's former team, Orlando Pirates, and Marumo Gallants.
Source: Briefly News
