Despite the high stakes and the grandeur of the moment, Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou remained grounded after guiding the Buccaneers to yet another MTN8 championship on Saturday evening.
At a packed Mbombela Stadium, Pirates lifted the trophy for a record-breaking fourth consecutive year, following a commanding 3-0 extra-time victory over Stellenbosch FC. The win was greeted with thunderous celebrations from the sold-out crowd, cementing Pirates’ dominance in the competition.
A Victory With Deeper Meaning
While the achievement added another glittering chapter to the club’s history, Ouaddou dedicated the triumph to those affected by the recent car accident that rocked the Pirates family. Among them is captain Thapelo Xoki, who continues his recovery. The coach himself also survived the incident, making the occasion especially poignant.
He reserved special praise for his technical staff, singling out goalkeeper coach Tyrone Damons, who is also still on the mend. “This victory belongs to everyone at the club who has shown resilience in difficult times,” Ouaddou said in his post-match comments.
Orlando Pirates’ Road to the Final
Pirates’ route to glory was far from straightforward. They battled past Polokwane City before edging out Mamelodi Sundowns in the semifinals. Against Stellenbosch, the final proved a cagey contest, with both sides unable to break the deadlock in regulation time.
It was in extra time that Ouaddou’s tactical acumen made the difference. Tshepang Moremi struck twice in quick succession, while striker Tshegofatso Mabasa added a third to put the result beyond doubt.
Answering the Critics
Reflecting on the victory, Ouaddou admitted that lifting the MTN8 trophy would not suddenly silence his doubters. “Winning the MTN8 has not magically converted my critics into supporters,” he remarked.
The Moroccan tactician emphasized that his methods and ideas had been visible throughout the season, even when pressure mounted for his potential dismissal. “My ideas were always there, even when people doubted them. Success requires patience,” he added.
The Buccaneers’ latest triumph not only reinforces their dominance in South African football but also offers hope for a promising future under Ouaddou’s leadership. His humility, resilience, and determination to steer the club through adversity suggest that his bond with Pirates is as strong as ever.
With this record-breaking fourth successive MTN8 crown, Orlando Pirates have once again shown why they remain a powerhouse in South African football.
Related article: Orlando Pirates Coach Confident Ahead of MTN8 Final Clash with Stellenbosch
