Abdeslam Ouaddou Explains Why Orlando Pirates Achieved Biggest Win Over Kaizer Chiefs in 25 Years

• Abdeslam Ouaddou has explained how Orlando Pirates achieved their biggest Soweto Derby win over Kaizer Chiefs in the Betway Premiership
• The former Moroccan international took part in his first Soweto Derby and guided the Buccaneers to victory over their fierce rivals at the FNB Stadium
• The former English Premier League star hailed his players for their performance in the derby as they continue to stand strong in the league standings

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has attributed his team’s Soweto Derby win over Kaizer Chiefs at the FNB Stadium on Saturday, February 28, 2026, to their resilience and sheer passion on the field.

The 3-0 victory at a packed Soccer City, courtesy of goals from South African internationals, Tshepang Moremi, Oswin Appollis, and Evidence Makgopa, marked the Sea Robbers' biggest league win against the Glamour Boys in 25 years.

The result temporarily returned the Buccaneers to the summit of the Betway Premiership standings, pending Mamelodi Sundowns’ encounter with Sekhukhune United on Sunday.

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Ouaddou praises team’s heart and spirit

Ouaddou stressed that the outcome went beyond tactics alone, that the players played with hearts and spirits to deliver the much-nedded victory.

“It wasn’t just about strategy or skill today,” he said. “In matches like this, you have to play with heart and spirit. That’s exactly what the players showed, and I hope they maintain this level through the rest of the season.”

The win marked a sharp return to form for the Sea Robbers, who had recently endured a league defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns and a surprising Nedbank Cup exit to second-tier Casric Stars. When asked what sparked the turnaround, Ouaddou pointed to his squad’s sharp finishing in front of goal.

“Our team’s fighting spirit has been there since the season began, and our commitment to quality football remains,” he noted. “The difference today was in the decisive moments. In the final third, we were precise. The players deserve full credit for that.”

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Ouaddou thoughts on Pirates' strong start

The coach expressed immense satisfaction with his squad’s performance, describing it as the level he expects.

“I’m thrilled and proud of the boys,” Ouaddou said. “This is the kind of performance I want to see consistently—high intensity and ambition.”

He also underscored the value of an early breakthrough. “Scoring early put pressure on Kaizer Chiefs right away, which allowed us to control the game,” he explained. “They are a strong team, but that fast start helped us dictate the tempo from the first half.”

Looking forward, Ouaddou believes the derby win can serve as a benchmark for the rest of the campaign. “For me, this match sets a reference point. We need to build on it until season’s end,” he added.

Pirates will aim to sustain their momentum when they travel to face Polokwane City in their next league fixture on Wednesday

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Ouaddou reacts to Pirates' win over Chiefs

Briefly News earlier reported that Ouaddou shared his thoughts on Pirates' win over Kaizer Chiefs in the first Soweto Derby this season.

The former Moroccan international was glad his team secured all three points against their bitter rivals..

Source: Briefly News