How Abdeslam Ouaddou Could Redefine Orlando Pirates’ Playing Style

Comparisons between former Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro and his successor Abdeslam Ouaddou are inevitable. Both tacticians bring different philosophies to the Soweto giants, but a key difference in midfield and attacking choices could define Ouaddou’s identity in the dugout.

Riveiro earned praise for his structured, possession-based football. However, he often leaned on conservative setups when the stakes were high. His midfield usually featured defensive anchors like Makhehlene Makhaula and Thalente Mbatha, who were tasked with breaking up play and retaining possession. In attack, he used traditional target men such as Evidence Makgopa or Tshegofatso Mabasa, supported by a deep-lying number 10 to link transitions.

In contrast, Ouaddou’s debut against Polokwane City in the MTN8 hinted at a more progressive, attack-minded approach. He started Sipho Mbule and Sihle Nduli in midfield, both players known for their forward thrust rather than defensive steel. Notably, Makhaula and Mbatha were not part of the matchday squad.

Former Pirates star Benedict Vilakazi weighed in on the shift in midfield dynamics. Speaking on the OmniaudioAfrica YouTube channel, he highlighted the contrast between the hard-working style of Makhaula and Mbatha and the more balanced, technical play offered by Mbule and Nduli.

“SS (Sihle and Sipho) and MM (Makhaula and Mbatha) is very interesting,” said Vilakazi. “MM are very hard-working. They defend, fight, and give comfort to the forwards. But SS can win the ball and play.”

He noted that while Mbule is not known for physicality or ball-winning, Nduli’s ability to connect defense and attack creates a platform for Mbule to influence play. This new combination, alongside Patrick Maswanganyi, gave Pirates more fluidity and attacking rhythm.

“’Tito’ (Maswanganyi) looked more relaxed. He had supply and didn’t need to chase second balls. That’s a big difference,” Vilakazi added. “It’s going to be tough for Makhaula and Mbatha.”

In the frontline, Ouaddou appears to favour mobility and pace. Boitumelo Radiopane and Yanela Mbuthuma started ahead of the more physical Makgopa and Mabasa, indicating a shift from holding play to quick movement and interchanging positions.

While it is early days, Ouaddou’s tactical decisions suggest a coach willing to experiment with a more expansive and dynamic style. If this continues, Orlando Pirates could become more unpredictable and dangerous in attack. Whether this results in better outcomes will depend on how well the squad adapts to the new demands.