Orlando Pirates Ready to Show Ambition Against Mamelodi Sundowns in MTN8 Semi-Final

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has confirmed his team is focused and ready for a crucial MTN8 semi-final second-leg clash against Mamelodi Sundowns. The Buccaneers will travel to Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium on Saturday with a 1-1 scoreline from the first leg at Orlando Stadium.

Ouaddou emphasized the importance of mentality and commitment as Pirates aim to defend their MTN8 title. Speaking at a press conference at the PSL headquarters in Parktown, the French-Moroccan coach praised the first-leg performance of both sides.

“A fantastic event again. We had a great game in the first leg. Two important teams on the continent. The two teams played fantastic football. We finished 1-1, but in cup games it’s sometimes a question of mentality,” Ouaddou said.

He highlighted the team’s ambition to progress to the final despite playing away from home. “We want to go to that game with a lot of ambition. We have the qualities to perform, and we have to be ready. We know it will not be easy because we don’t play at home. But we will try to find the resources to pass through and we have a title to defend. Orlando Pirates were winning this cup, so we will definitely go with ambition to defend our title. The boys are ready to perform.”

Pirates have shown signs of improvement after a shaky start to the season, most recently securing a 1-0 victory over Stellenbosch FC in the Betway Premiership. Ouaddou welcomed the progress but stressed that every squad member must be prepared to contribute.

“Look, we have talented players. We have good players. We are not trying to find a formula. We have a big squad and everybody is important for our club. Every player who gets a chance to play needs to give his best for Orlando Pirates and for the badge. Yesterday, the players who had the chance performed well. The others must also be ready when called upon,” he said.

Pirates know that a score draw higher than 1-1 will see them advance on the away goals rule. Sundowns, dominant in domestic competitions, will be equally determined to secure a spot in the final.

With the tie delicately poised and both teams evenly matched, fans can expect another high-intensity encounter between two of South Africa’s biggest clubs. The outcome will likely hinge on discipline, focus, and the ability to seize key moments on the pitch.