Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has delivered a surprising and humble response after being named the Betway Premiership Coach of the Month for September and October. The French-Moroccan tactician deflected all praise away from himself following the official announcement....Click to Read More >>➤

The award recognizes Ouaddou’s perfect league record during the period under review. Under his guidance, the Buccaneers secured three consecutive victories. They began with a 1-0 away win against Siwelele FC on September 23.

This was followed by a 2-0 triumph over TS Galaxy at Orlando Stadium on September 30. The winning streak concluded with another 1-0 victory against Polokwane City on October 22 at the same venue.

However, in a post-match press conference after his team’s thrilling 3-1 win over Golden Arrows, Ouaddou refused to take credit. In his true character, he shifted the spotlight entirely to his players and support staff.

“I don’t like individual awards,” Ouaddou told journalists. “For me, being named Coach of the Month is thanks to the players, they deserve the credit.”

He expanded on this, expressing his gratitude for the collective effort behind the success. “I must also thank my staff, the South African technical team working with me, and the management for their support,” he added.

The coach then made a poignant alternative suggestion. He stated that he prefers to see the honor as a club-wide achievement. “Instead of saying ‘Ouaddou is the Coach of the Month,’ I prefer to say Orlando Pirates are the Club of the Month. This award belongs to everyone involved,” the lanky manager concluded.

This humble leadership appears to be yielding significant results on the pitch. Despite a shock exit from the CAF Champions League, the Buccaneers are in formidable form. The team recently clinched the MTN8 title in style, defeating Stellenbosch FC 3-0.

In the league, Orlando Pirates are the second-highest scorers with 14 goals in 10 games. They trail only Mamelodi Sundowns, who lead with 19 goals. Crucially, the Buccaneers have played two fewer matches than the league leaders.

Defensively, the Soweto giants have been exceptional. They currently boast the best defensive record in South Africa, having conceded just five goals in their ten league outings. The team’s focus now shifts to the Carling Knockout cup competition.

They are set to face Richards Bay FC in the semifinal this Saturday. The match will kick off at 15:00 at the Moses Mabhida Stadium. The other semifinal will see Golden Arrows host Marumo Gallants on Sunday. ...Click to Read More >>➤