Abdeslam Ouaddou Reflects on Six Debutants in Pirates' Win Over Polokwane City

• Abdeslam Ouaddou has shared his thoughts on Orlando Pirates' new signings' performance in their 2-0 win over Polokwane City in the MTN8
• The Moroccan tactician secured a win on his official debut as the Sea Robbers sealed a place in the next round of the competition
• The former Marumo Gallants manager also opened up on the motivation behind his team's strong performance against the Rise and Shine

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has commented on the performances of six debutants in their 2-0 victory over Polokwane City in the MTN8 quarter-final at the Orlando Stadium on Saturday.

The Soweto giants dominated most of the first half and were rewarded with goals from new signing, Oswin Appollis, and Patrick Maswanganyi as they sealed a place in the semi-final.

The Moroccan coach was brought in to replace Jose Riveiro this summer and has given close to ten signings a chance in this transfer window.

Read also

MTN8 title race explodes as Pirates and Sundowns draw each other in semis

Appollis, Sihle Nduli, Sipho Mbule, Abdoulaye Mariko, Yanela Mbuthuma, and Tshepang Moremi all made their official debuts against the Rise and Shine at the Orlando Stadium.

Ouaddou on 6 debutants with massive Pirates squad

Speaking to iDiski Times after the match, Ouaddou explained the motivation behind the team’s strong display and the decision to field several new faces.

“When a new coach arrives, players naturally want to make a good impression, I felt the same way during my playing days,” Ouaddou told iDiski Times when asked about the new-look squad on his debut.

“I’m happy to see that hunger. This season, the club has made a conscious decision to prioritise squad depth.”

The former Marumo Gallants head coach made it clear that selections for the starting line-up were based on merit and not sentiment.

“We give opportunities to those who earn them. It’s not about pleasing anyone, if a player gets a chance, it’s because they’ve proven in training that they can contribute to the team. All the players you saw on the pitch showed me exactly that during pre-season.”

Read also

Why Mudau, Ribeiro and Shalulile were absent against Richards Bay – Cardoso explains

The former Fulham midfielder also underlined the importance of squad unity and rotation in achieving long-term success while also emphasising inclusivity and the importance of every squad member.

“To win a single game, you need 11 players, but to win titles and compete in multiple competitions, you need a strong, united squad. That’s the philosophy we’re aiming to implement this season. During pre-season, we’ve already seen how effectively we can rotate players,” he added.

“It’s crucial to involve everyone at the club, including those who weren’t with us today because they played earlier this morning. Every player matters. I avoid calling anyone a substitute, to me, they are all impact players.”

Ouaddou reacts to Appollis' performance against Polokwane

Briefly News also reported that Ouaddou commented on Appollis' performance against his former club, Polokwane City.

The South African international produced a Man of Match performance against the Rise and Shine.

Source: Briefly News