Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has shared his first reaction to being named the Betway Premiership Coach of the Month, but was quick to deflect the individual praise.
The announcement was made on Wednesday, marking a significant personal milestone for Ouaddou, who claimed the award for the first time since taking charge of the Buccaneers. His tactical acumen earned him the honour after he guided his troops to three consecutive victories in the Betway Premiership during October.
Speaking after securing yet another crucial win—a 3-1 victory over Golden Arrows later that same evening—Ouaddou emphasised that the award reflected a collective effort rather than personal achievement.
“I don’t like individual awards. For me, if I give credit, as the coach of the month, I thank the players. Thanks to my staff, who are working with me,” the Pirates coach stated. “Thanks to the club and to the management as well.”
A NEW PERSPECTIVE: PIRATES AS ‘CLUB OF THE MONTH’
The recognition comes after Pirates successfully bounced back from a rocky start to their league campaign. After losing their first two games, the Buccaneers went on a phenomenal run, securing six consecutive wins without conceding a single goal during that streak.
The latest victory against Arrows marked their seventh win in 10 games, propelling them to second position on the log, two games behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.
The former Marumo Gallants coach continued to express his humility, proposing a collective shift in how such accolades are viewed.
“I think instead of saying Ouaddou is the coach of the month, I prefer to say we are the club of the month. Orlando Pirates is the club of the month,” he suggested, stressing that “it’s an award for our club and not only the coach.”
Having already led the team to MTN8 glory this season, Ouaddou now sets his sights on a second piece of silverware. Pirates must now pivot their focus to the crucial Carling Knockout Cup semi-final clash against Richards Bay FC this Saturday.
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