Abdeslam Ouaddou wary of Siwelele FC threat as Orlando Pirates chase Carling Knockout glory

Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou is expecting a stern test when his Orlando Pirates side face Siwelele FC in the Carling Knockout round of 16 at Orlando Stadium on Saturday (3pm kick-off).

The Buccaneers are enjoying a rich vein of form, currently on a seven-match winning streak across all competitions. With momentum on their side, the Sea Robbers are eager to push for silverware after falling short last season, when they were eliminated in a shock 3-2 defeat to eventual champions Magesi FC.

Ouaddou, who has already delivered the MTN8 title in his debut season, remains wary of the threat Siwelele pose, despite Pirates having beaten them 1-0 in the league just last week.

“It’s another important tournament for us as we take all competitions and matches very seriously,” Ouaddou said ahead of the clash.

“It will be a very strong opponent, and I did say after our win against them that they will not remain in the position they were in. They showed it in their next match (a 2-1 win against Marumo Gallants).

“We are expecting very strong and organised opposition, and for us we will put all our energy into going into the next round.”

The Moroccan tactician brushed aside concerns about last season’s early knockout exit, insisting his focus is firmly on the present.

“I was not there with what has happened before, and my role is just to focus on the future, and to try and do well together with the players. It will not be easy, as every team wants to win, so for us it’s just another game and another opportunity for my players to give their best and try to win the round.”