Humble Ouaddou dedicates Orlando Pirates’ MTN8 triumph amid adversity

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Despite the grandeur of the occasion, coach Abdeslam Ouaddou exuded humility after Orlando Pirates secured the MTN8 championship on Saturday.

At the post-match ceremony, the sold-out crowd at Mbombela Stadium erupted in celebration as the Ouaddou-coached team was presented with the trophy, leaving no doubt about their dominance in the competition.

Saturday’s 3-0 victory secured their spot in tournament history as champions for a record-breaking fourth consecutive year. During the pitch-side interview, Ouaddou dedicated the victory to all the club members affected by a recent car accident, including captain Thapelo Xoki, who is still recovering.

This season has presented its share of challenges for Pirates, and Ouaddou’s journey has been particularly poignant; he himself survived the accident. In his post-match comments, he paid special tribute to his technical team, highlighting the strength shown by goalkeeper coach Tyrone Damons, who is also still recovering.

The road to the final was not without obstacles for Pirates, whose journey included hard-fought victories over Polokwane City and Mamelodi Sundowns. Facing a spirited Stellenbosch FC squad, the match was tightly contested, ultimately leading the teams into extra time after a scoreless regulation period.

It was there that Ouaddou’s tactical adjustments shone through, with winger Tshepang Moremi scoring twice and striker Tshegofatso Mabasa adding another goal to seal the deal.

While reflecting on the journey, Ouaddou acknowledged that the victory does not erase the doubts of his critics.

“Winning the MTN8 has not magically converted my critics into supporters,” he said.

He reiterated that the approaches which led to success were evident earlier in the season, even amidst calls for his potential dismissal. He believes the victory not only highlights the effectiveness of his strategy but also reinforces the necessity for patience as he continues to implement his vision for the team.

“My ideas were always there, even when people doubted them,” he stated, emphasising that success does not come without challenges.

With this latest triumph, Pirates not only solidify their legacy in South African football history but also pave the way for a hopeful future under Ouaddou’s guidance, whose commitment to the club appears unwavering.