Orlando Pirates’ Abdeslam Ouaddou - We were focused for 90 minutes
Orlando Pirates secured a 2-0 Betway Premiership victory over Chippa United, with late goals from Oswin Appollis and Evidence Makgopa, as coach Abdeslam Ouaddou praised the team’s focus and tactical adjustments. Picture: Itumeleng English/Independent Media
Image: Itumeleng English/Independent Media
Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou praised the perseverant performance of his charges, as they powered to a 2-0 Betway Premiership win over Chippa United at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday evening.
Two goals in the last 25 minutes of the clash from Oswin Appollis and Evidence Makgopa helped Pirates shake off their bottom-of-the-table opponents.
The win meant Pirates drew level with table-topping Mamelodi Sundowns on points, but one spot behind on the table due to goal difference.
Given the fierce nature of the match, Ouaddou was full of praise for his troops.
Ouaddou Praises Team’s Focus and Tactical Adjustments in Victory Over Chippa United
“Of course, happy when you see the physicality of the match; it was not easy. I think we played against a very good team of Chippa, very well organised tactically,” Ouaddou told SuperSport TV after the game.
“They put us in trouble in the first half; we couldn’t find the space we wanted, so we went into halftime to make some tactical changes to improve a little bit in the second half.”
The fact that Chippa are stuck in the basement of the log did not help Pirates’ cause, Ouaddou revealed.
“I think the guys did well; I have to congratulate them. You know, to play against a team who are looking for points is never easy, even when they are last on the log.
“But again, my players impressed; focus is what I like in the game. We were focused for 90 minutes. We didn’t concede goals; we came back with the strength. It’s very important for me not to concede goals.”