Orlando Pirates' Abdeslam Ouaddou not quite in seventh heaven after CAF Champions League win

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has downplayed his team’s dominant performance in the CAF Champions League first preliminary round, which concluded with a masterclass 7-0 aggregate triumph over Lesotho’s Lioli FC on Saturday.

Following their 4-0 win in the second leg at Orlando Stadium, Ouaddou reminded fans and players that such victories should be expected rather than celebrated as extraordinary achievements. He noted that a victory like this was anticipated from a team of the Pirates' calibre.

Impressive braces from forwards Tshepang Moremi and Yanela Mbuthuma bolstered Pirates. While the scoreline reflected a dominant performance, Ouaddou emphasised the necessity of treating every opponent with respect, regardless of their stature in African football.

“To be honest, we were never worried about that game,” Ouaddou reflected in his post-match press conference. “I think my players just respected the opponent. If we need five goals, we must score them. If we had scored only one goal, I would not be happy with my players. I would say we didn’t respect the opponent.”

The coach’s assessment, while modest, underscores the expectations set for a club with the rich history and tradition of the Pirates. Ouaddou elaborated on the team’s approach, explaining how they maintained composure against a solid defensive performance from Lioli.

He stated, “We started the game like we wanted to start it, but it was not easy because we knew that the team would be compact again. However, we were not worried; it was just a question of time before we scored the first goal.” Pirates showed resilience as they continued to probe and eventually broke through their opponents’ defence.

Ouaddou made it clear that staying humble was key. “We have to stay humble because I think it’s normal to win. If Orlando Pirates are not able to win against that team, we could be worried. So it’s just a normal win for us, it’s not something exceptional,” he stated.

Amidst the praise for teamwork, Ouaddou singled out midfielder Sipho Mbule, dubbing him “one of the best players in South African football.” The coach praised Mbule’s performance, particularly after a tactical adjustment in the second half, which allowed him to shine in a more liberated role.

“It was a bit difficult for him in the first half because of the low block,” Ouaddou explained. “But after we allowed him to play a little bit lower, we saw the real Mbule and what he can do. So, I am pleased about his performance and, in general, the performance of all the boys.”

With their eyes set firmly on the next challenge, the Pirates are ready to translate this momentum into further success, driven by a blend of talent, humility, and mutual respect among teammates.

Now, with their eyes on advancing further in the competition, Pirates await the winner of the tie between Al-Merreikh (Sudan) and St Eloi Lupopo (DR Congo), who won the first leg clash on Saturday. Next Saturday, the second leg of the encounter will be played.

With their current form and the coach's pragmatic approach, the Soweto giants are poised to make a significant impact on the African stage.