Abdeslam Ouaddou is silencing the doubters. Despite the pressure of the Betway Premiership title race, the Bucs boss insists there is no 'Plan B' — only a total commitment to the attacking identity that has defined their season. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has underlined the importance of consistency in identity as his side navigate a tense Betway Premiership title race, insisting their approach remains unchanged despite recent setbacks.
Ouaddou was speaking after Pirates’ emphatic 3-0 victory over AmaZulu FC at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday — a result that temporarily lifted them to the top of the standings. Yet, beneath that position lies a more complex reality.
Pirates’ title charge has shown signs of strain in recent weeks, with dropped points against Siwelele FC and Richards Bay FC allowing Mamelodi Sundowns to remain firmly in control of the race. Despite trailing by two points, Sundowns still hold two games in hand — a factor that continues to tilt the balance in their favour.
For Ouaddou, however, the response is not to rethink, but to reinforce.
“No (we haven’t changed anything), we just followed our philosophy, we have a group of players that we trust and everyone is involved in the project,” he said.
That philosophy has been clear throughout the season — an emphasis on attacking football, collective responsibility and belief in the squad’s depth. Even during periods where results have faltered, Ouaddou has resisted the urge to deviate from that blueprint.
“We play every game to win and we haven’t altered that when playing home or away, when you coach Pirates, you play attacking football.”
It is a stance that reflects both conviction and expectation.
Pirates have often been at their most dangerous when playing on the front foot, with players like Relebohile Mofokeng and Oswin Appollis thriving in a system that encourages expression and movement.
Saturday’s performance against AmaZulu was a reminder of that identity — fluid, aggressive and decisive in the final third. But the coach was equally quick to acknowledge the challenges.
“Sometimes teams have been able to challenge us and that’s a part of football but we can’t take out the good things our team has done and we’ll definitely keep pushing.”
That balance — recognising setbacks without losing belief — will be crucial in the weeks ahead.
Attention now turns to the looming Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs, a fixture that carries weight beyond points alone.
With the title race tightening and momentum shifting, the timing of Pirates’ return to form could prove significant.
“This was a very good moment for the guys and it’s even better before the derby.”
For Pirates, the message is clear: stay the course.
In a title race defined by pressure, fine margins and external noise, Ouaddou is placing his faith in continuity — trusting that the same principles which carried them this far will be enough to sustain their challenge until the very end.