Ouaddou confident Orlando Pirates can overcome Mamelodi Sundowns in MTN8 semi-final

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou says his side will have enough resources to overcome Mamelodi Sundowns on Saturday and reach the MTN8 final.

Pirates will visit Sundowns in the semi-final second leg at Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium, following the teams’ 1–1 draw in the first leg at Orlando Stadium last Saturday. With Sundowns’ away goal giving them the advantage, the pressure is on Pirates to deliver a result in hostile territory.

Both sides come into the clash high in confidence after midweek victories in the Betway Premiership. Pirates edged Stellenbosch 1–0 at home on Wednesday, a win that provided relief for Ouaddou after two straight defeats at the start of the season.

Amid the positivity surrounding both clubs, Ouaddou painted a picture of the type of encounter he expects in Atteridgeville.

“It’s tricky for both teams,” Ouaddou said.

“You have to be very smart about your approach. Of course, we can’t give you the plan now, but what I can say is that it will be a very interesting game for both sides.”

Sundowns, meanwhile, have pulled out all the stops to beat Pirates for the first time in four recent cup meetings, having lost twice in the MTN8 and once in the Nedbank Cup. They rested several regulars during their 2–0 win over Magesi on Wednesday, a game in which Peter Shalulile equalled the PSL’s all-time top scorer record.

Ouaddou is not reading too much into that approach, however, stressing that Saturday’s clash will be an entirely different contest.

“I don’t look at what they did,” he said.

“I was fully focused on our team. Cup games are not about rest, but about mentality.

"Do you want to go to the final, keep the title, and play as a unit?

"Sometimes you need to find the resources, especially when you go into extra time due to fatigue. Cup games come from the heart – somewhere deep.”

The Pirates coach has also reintroduced several senior players in recent matches after facing criticism for chopping and changing his line-ups and favouring new signings.

“We have talented players. It’s not just about finding a formula; we have a big squad and everyone is important,” Ouaddou explained.

“Every player who gets the chance to step onto the pitch must give his best for Pirates and the badge. I was very happy with the commitment shown. When they get opportunities, they need to perform.”

While he admits there is a core group within the squad, Ouaddou insists he cannot afford to sideline others in such a big team competing on multiple fronts.

“We have a core of players, but everyone is important,” he said.

“It’s difficult to talk about a core when you are managing such a large squad across many competitions. That may apply at a smaller club with 15 to 18 players, but at Pirates, you must respect every player and give them time to adapt,” he concluded.

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