Despite their resilience, the Buccaneers have trailed in seven of the eight games where they have dropped points this season. Photo: Itumeleng English Independent Media
Image: Itumeleng English Independent Media
Abdeslam Ouaddou has addressed a growing concern in Orlando Pirates’ title pursuit — their difficulty in overturning deficits — following a frustrating Soweto Derby draw against Kaizer Chiefs.
Pirates were forced to come from behind to salvage a 1-1 result on Sunday, a performance that once again highlighted both their resilience and their recurring vulnerability when conceding first. In the context of the Betway Premiership title race, however, resilience alone is no longer enough.
With Mamelodi Sundowns dropping points in recent weeks, Pirates had an opportunity to strengthen their grip at the top. Instead, it was another case of what might have been.
After 26 matches, the Buccaneers have recorded 18 wins, five draws and three defeats — a strong return on paper. But a deeper look reveals a trend that could prove decisive in the run-in.
Of the eight matches in which they have dropped points, Pirates have fallen behind in seven. The only exception was a goalless draw against Sekhukhune United. For Ouaddou, however, the issue is not unique to his side.
“It’s not only a problem for us, you look at the majority of statistics in the world, the team that scores first always has a higher chance of winning the game,” he said.
The Pirates coach pointed to the broader reality of football dynamics, while also highlighting his team’s response when faced with adversity.
“I think a lot of times this season, most recently against Siwelele and Richards Bay as well but also today as well and my boys gave their best of themselves in terms of personality and character to come back (and draw the game).”
That fighting spirit has ensured Pirates remain firmly in the title race, but it has also come at a cost.
“Because when you concede a goal then you need to take risks to leave space and create chances and it’s what we did so we have to give them credit for that and if the game went a little bit longer than I think we would’ve won.”
His comments underline the tactical gamble required when chasing games — a shift that opens space but also increases exposure. Ouaddou also turned his attention to Chiefs’ approach on the day, suggesting their mindset contrasted sharply with his own side’s ambitions.
“I saw a lot of Kaizer Chiefs players going down and I cannot say whether they were tired or wasting time because it seemed as if a draw was a fantastic result for them which was surprising for such a big club,” he expressed.
“I think they should be disappointed like us because we were not happy with dropping two points and I expected them to feel the same way but I saw that they were happy with the one point.”
With the title race entering its decisive phase, Pirates’ ability to control matches from the outset — rather than chase them — may ultimately define their season.