Pirates slip to Sekhukhune as Ouaddou urges quick recovery

image: SABC

by Lwandiso  Simanga

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou expressed disappointment after his side’s 1-0 home defeat to Sekhukhune United in their Betway Premiership opener. Despite dominating possession, the Buccaneers were undone by a scrappy Siphesihle Mkhize goal, failing to convert their control into clear chances.

Ouaddou admitted the performance lacked the sharpness seen in last week’s 2-0 MTN8 win over Polokwane City. “We did not start the way we wanted,” he said, noting that the team only came alive once chasing the game. He stressed the need for greater efficiency in the box and a quicker playing style ahead of Tuesday’s clash against his former side, Marumo Gallants, in Bloemfontein.

The coach also addressed the absence of last season’s top scorer, Tshegofatso Mabasa, from the matchday squads. He confirmed the striker is fully fit, explaining that his omission was purely tactical, and assured supporters that Mabasa remains ready to contribute when called upon.

Pirates missed an opportunity to gain early ground in the title race after defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns dropped points in a 1-1 draw with Chippa United earlier in the day. Ouaddou believes the result highlights the competitiveness of the new season, with narrower margins between teams.

“Our focus now is to bounce back quickly,” he said, urging his squad to respond with urgency and precision in their upcoming fixture.