Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has shared his thoughts on the departure of Hugo Broos from his position as Bafana Bafana head coach.
Ouaddou weighed in on the exit of the veteran Belgian tactician, who officially stepped down following the expiration of his contract, ending a memorable spell in South Africa that began in May 2021.
The Buccaneers mentor delivered his message of appreciation for Broos following Pirates’ opening-day 2-0 victory over Milford FC in their Betway Premiership title defence at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday.
The defending champions secured all three points thanks to goals from Bafana Bafana attackers Oswin Appollis and Tshepang Moremi.
Speaking during the post-match press conference, Ouaddou reflected on Broos’ impact on South African and African football as a whole, insisting that the country should find a fitting way to honour the outgoing coach.
OUADDOU PAYS TRIBUTE TO BROOS’ AFRICAN LEGACY
“About Hugo Broos, he’s leaving not far from where I live in France. I think it’s about 250 kilometres away and in that area, the east of Belgium, it’s people who believe in hard work,” Ouaddou said.
“People coming from that area have a lot of humility, and they are straight people. He is someone who has brought a lot to African football. What I like about him, he’s someone who came to our continent with a lot of humility and used the competencies of the continent.
“He’s not someone who’s looking to bring people from outside. He’s someone who believes in Africans, and he did well with Cameroon; he also had a good time in South Africa. We can say whatever we want about him, but he brought something.”
‘HE LOVED OUR FOOTBALL’
The Moroccan tactician also highlighted the collaborative relationship he shared with Broos during their time managing in South Africa, praising his willingness to engage local coaches.
“For me, I just want to thank him for the fact that he’s open to speaking to other coaches,” Ouaddou added. “I had meetings with him many times, and Orlando Pirates allowed us to meet to speak about the players and football.
“He’s somebody who loves our football, our continent, and he took time away from his family and gave it to football. I think if we can reward this man for all he has done, it will be fantastic.”
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