Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has shared his thoughts on the team’s performance against Polokwane City, issuing a bold MTN8 statement. The Buccaneers secured their spot in the MTN8 semifinals after a hard-fought victory over Polokwane City.
The quarterfinal match, played in front of a sold-out crowd at Orlando Stadium on Saturday afternoon, saw the home side win 2-0. The goals came courtesy of a debut goal from Oswin Appollis, who successfully haunted his former side, and a second from Patrick Maswanganyi, who converted from the penalty spot.
Ouaddou expressed his pride in his team’s performance, noting that they had executed the game plan well. However, he also acknowledged that the team is a work in progress and that there is still plenty of room for improvement as they settle into the new season.
OUADDOU SEES ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT ON HIS PIRATES TEAM
“I’m very proud of the boys because they stuck to the plan. We wanted to play with high intensity from the beginning of the game to put pressure on [Polokwane],” said Ouaddou during the post-match interview on SuperSport TV.
“I think it was a good game for our fans as well. We wanted to give them a good game, as we were training in Spain for a long time. There’s still some things to improve, not everything was perfect, but at least I’m happy about our first game.”
The French-Moroccan coach has set a clear mandate for his team, stating that winning the MTN8 is a must. The Sea Robbers are aiming to not only retain their title but also make further history by winning it for a fourth consecutive time.
BUCS GAFFER SETS MANDATE FOR HIS TEAM
“When you are Orlando Pirates, winning every cup [is a target],” added Ouaddou.
“So, MTN8, definitely, we have to win it. It will not be easy, but we will give our best to try to win it.”
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