Orlando Pirates aim to extend momentum against struggling Chippa United

As the Orlando Pirates prepare to host Chippa United at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday evening, coach Abdeslam Ouaddou remains firmly optimistic about his squad’s progress and their adherence to his tactical philosophy.

Following a rocky start to the season, Ouaddou has successfully led the Buccaneers to an impressive turnaround, stringing together a series of victories that have reinvigorated their title ambitions.

The season began with uncertainty for Ouaddou, as questions about his appointment lingered after two consecutive defeats in the Betway Premiership. However, the situation quickly transformed following the Buccaneers’ triumphant run, marked by four consecutive wins in the MTN8 and seven victories from their next eight league fixtures.

This resurgence has brought them within striking distance of league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, with Pirates sitting just three points behind and still holding two games in hand.

Central to their success has been a focus on discipline and tactical consistency.

“Step by step they get it; you can see that the players are on the project,” Ouaddou said regarding his squad’s adaptation to his game plan.

“We want to score goals and we want to be tactically disciplined. You can see that Orlando Pirates are consistent, they’re strong — it’s not easy to score goals against us.”

With their last league outing resulting in a commanding 3-1 victory over Golden Arrows, Pirates have also secured a place in the Carling Knockout final against Marumo Gallants on December 6.

This success highlighted stellar performances from players such as Tshepang Moremi, who has made an impactful entrance since joining from Usuthu. The 25-year-old winger has energised the squad with eight goals in 17 appearances and has emerged as a key figure during the recent streak.

In contrast, Chippa United are struggling at the bottom of the league table, still searching for their first win under new manager Vusumuzi Vilakazi. Despite a promising start with a 0-0 draw against Magesi, the club remain two points adrift of safety after a tough opening, including a 3-0 defeat to AmaZulu.

Pirates’ upcoming opposition have faced defensive challenges, conceding the second-most goals in the league this season. Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali will be crucial to Chippa’s hopes of holding back a prolific Pirates attack.

Despite his efforts, including three clean sheets from 11 starts, the pressure remains on Chippa’s defence, which has let in 19 goals so far.

As the teams prepare to clash, the dynamics are clear: Orlando Pirates are riding a wave of confidence, while Chippa United grapple with instability. The Buccaneers hope to continue their ascent, while Chippa aim to pull off a surprise and turn their season around.