Former Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates coach Muhsin Ertugral has praised Abdeslam Ouaddou’s pedigree, while also wishing the French-Moroccan the best against second-round adversities.
Since joining the Sea Robbers last June 2025, Ouaddou’s tenure has shown major success. The former Fulham defender has already lifted the MTN8 and Carling Knockout trophies.
Under his charge, Pirates picked up 20 victories, three defeats, and two draws in the 24 games played this season across all competitions.
As a player who played his football in central defence, he has made the Buccaneers’ guard one of the best in the league. This was most evident in the club’s record-breaking run of eight consecutive wins with clean sheets.
According to Ertugral, Ouaddou has brought top-level pedigree and a unique mental approach to the Buccaneers.
“Orlando Pirates this season has a great, great coach, I see it when this season started,” Ertugral said on the OmniAudioAfrica podcast. “They brought it a coach that has really strong pedigree. He is such a brilliant mental coach. I hope he can work in peace.
MUHSIN ERTUGRAL SAYS THE SECOND ROUND WILL TEST ABDESLAM OUADDOU
“The second round might come with ups and downs. It happens. Mamelodi Sundowns will push, I know that. But this will be a Pirates and Sundowns season again.
Pirates’ overall numbers clearly highlight Ouaddou’s success, with 48 goals scored and only 17 conceded so far this season.
As a tactician, the former Morocco international has focused on details in both boxes on the field, high-quality transitions, control and most crucially, game-defining substitutions.
The log table has reflected it all. Orlando Pirates sit well at the summit of the Betway Premiership log, two points clear and a game in hand ahead of the mighty Mamelodi Sundowns, who have won a remarkable eight league titles on the bounce.
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