Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has outlined what he demands from star forward Tshepang Moremi as the Buccaneers shift their focus to the CAF Champions League group stages.
Moremi has been a key driver in Pirates’ attack this season, racking up seven goals and an assist across all competitions. His impressive run includes netting the decisive winner in last weekend’s Soweto Derby victory over Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium.
Despite his influence, the 25-year-old has occasionally drawn criticism for squandering clear-cut chances in front of goal—an area Ouaddou insists must be refined for elite continental competition.
Speaking after Pirates secured a 1-0 win over Sekhukhune United in Saturday’s Carling Knockout Cup quarter-final at the Orlando Amstel Arena, the Moroccan tactician praised the former AmaZulu FC winger’s work ethic while outlining expectations for his development.
OUADDOU HAILS MOREMI’S IMPACT BUT DEMANDS NEXT STEP
“He’s a player who gives incredible energy to the team. He’s explosive, dynamic, and never lazy in his efforts,” Ouaddou told journalists. “He sets the tone and drags the rest of the team along with him. He has put in some fantastic performances, but there is still room for improvement if he wants to reach the absolute highest level.
“The demands and expectations in top-tier football are relentless. Especially with the Champions League coming up, the intensity will be much higher. I need him to deliver those performances consistently.”
PIRATES TURN FOCUS TO CONTINENTAL COMPETITION
The victory over Sekhukhune marked Pirates’ final fixture before the November FIFA international break, after which they shift focus entirely to the CAF Champions League group stages.
The Soweto giants are making their return to the main stage of Africa’s premier club competition, looking to build on their 2024/25 semi-final run after failing to reach the group phase last term.
Pirates open their Group C campaign away to Tanzanian powerhouses Simba SC, currently led by South African coach Steve Barker. Their group also features three-time CAF Confederation Cup champions RS Berkane of Morocco and Cameroonian debutants Colombe Sportive.
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