Abdeslam Ouaddou on Managing Pressure as Orlando Pirates Chase Another Trophy

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has spoken about the demands and pressures of leading one of South Africa’s biggest clubs, with the team just two wins away from adding another trophy to their cabinet.

Since his appointment in the off-season, Ouaddou has managed 20 games in charge. Under his guidance, Pirates have retained the MTN8 for the fourth consecutive year, a milestone achieved through 14 victories in open play and a semi-final triumph over Mamelodi Sundowns decided by penalties.

Ouaddou’s early success has silenced critics, and Pirates are well-placed to secure top position in the league if they win their games in hand. Speaking on the challenges of coaching at a club of Pirates’ stature, Ouaddou emphasized the importance of handling daily pressure.

“When you come into such a big club, not only in the country but on the continent, if you don’t have this kind of pressure, it will be difficult to deliver,” Ouaddou said. “You need positive pressure every day. It pushes you to be the best and deliver for your players, your staff, and your club. If you are too relaxed, you cannot give 100% of your capacity.”

The coach described the role of the fans in creating this environment. “The fans make you feel it. They push you to be the best. They push the players. They push the coaches. You don’t have time to chill when you come to Pirates.”

Ouaddou’s philosophy emphasizes that consistent performance at a club like Pirates requires embracing pressure as a motivating force rather than a burden. This approach has helped the team remain competitive across multiple competitions and maintain high standards both on and off the field.

The Soweto giants are set to play Richards Bay FC on Saturday at Moses Mabhida Stadium, with a place in the Carling Knockout final at stake. A win would continue Pirates’ momentum and bring Ouaddou closer to claiming yet another trophy in a season that has already highlighted his managerial credentials. With the MTN8 secured and the Carling Knockout final within reach, Ouaddou’s ability to harness pressure could prove key to sustaining Pirates’ dominance in South African football.