Abdeslam Ouaddou Says Debut Soweto Derby Win “Tasted Spicy” After Orlando Pirates Triumph

• Abdeslam Ouaddou has reacted after claiming his first win as an Orlando Pirates coach in the Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs this weekend
• The French-Moroccan tactician described how he felt after winning his first Soweto Derby as coach, while comparing it to his playing days
• Orlando Pirates are back on top of the Betway Premiership table ahead of Mamelodi Sundowns and Sekhukhune United

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou described his first Soweto Derby win as having a “spicy” edge, comparing between experiencing the fixture as a player, and now from the technical area as the manager.

Ouaddou featured in several high-profile derbies across France, England and Greece during his distinguished playing days before transitioning into a manager.

The former English Premier League midfielder is now settling into his role at Pirates and beginning to make his mark after a poor start in the Betway Premiership when he was appointed.

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Ouaddou reacts to first Soweto Derby win

After securing victory in his first Soweto Derby in South Africa, Ouaddou was asked whether winning such a fierce contest feels different as a coach compared to a player.

The question referenced remarks previously made by Bafana Bafana legend Benni McCarthy, who once suggested that lifting silverware as a coach was even more fulfilling than winning the highly coveted UEFA Champions League as a player.

The former Fulham midfielder acknowledged the comparison but maintained that the essence of the rivalry remains unchanged.

“It’s an interesting question — playing a derby as a footballer or leading one as a coach. For me, the flavour is identical because of the rivalry. The intensity is still there; it’s still spicy,” he said following the win.

The former Marumo Gallants head coach explained further that the key distinction lies in perspective, either as a coach or a player.

“As a player, your focus is primarily on your own performance — you want to impress, deliver for the supporters and produce a strong display. As a coach, your attention shifts entirely to the collective. You’re responsible for 20 to 35 players, not yourself.”

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Ouaddou on what changed as a coach

Ouaddou added that while his role has evolved, the magnitude of the occasion remains the same for him.

“It doesn’t change much for me. It’s a huge match for the fans. These are two giants of African football — Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs. Today felt bigger than just a Soweto Derby; it had the atmosphere of a Champions League encounter.”

The Sea Robbers’ deserved 3-0 victory over Chiefs lifted them three points clear of second-placed Mamelodi Sundowns at the summit of the standings, ahead of their upcoming fixture against Sekhukhune United.

Pirates sweating over Bafana star's fitness

Briefly News also reported that Orlando Pirates are said to be sweating over the fitness of a South African international ahead of the Soweto Derby.

The Bafana Bafana star's agent has come out to explain what's wrong with the player as the Buccaneers prepare to face Amakhosi.

Source: Briefly News