Ouaddou Sees Positives In Pirates

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has spoken out about his team’s draw against Spanish side Las Palmas in their preseason practice match in Spain on Thursday evening.

This was the Buccaneers’ third game in preparation for the 2025/26 season, following a 2-0 loss to Bolton Wanderers and a 1-1 draw against Cypriot club Pafos.

Despite failing to score in the match against Las Palmas, Ouaddou highlighted the positive aspects of his team’s performance.

“This game today (on Thursday) was not easy; we can say that we ran behind the ball, and we played against a very interesting team,” he said.

“There are some positive points, even though we didn’t score a goal. We can say that I’ve found a very big team spirit on my team, and it’s very strong.”

The Moroccan mentor emphasized the importance of team spirit, particularly in upcoming CAF Champions League matches.

“During the season, we’ll need this team spirit, especially when we are going to play away in the Champions League. So, we have to take some positive points today.”

Pirates will play their final preseason game in Spain on Saturday against Granada at the Marbella Football Centre, kickoff at 19:00.

The Buccaneers are looking to secure their first win in four games, having drawn two and lost one.

These preseason games are a crucial test for the team, which will compete in five competitions next season: the MTN8 Cup, Betway Premiership, Carling Knockout, Nedbank Cup, and the Champions League.

Last season, Pirates won only one trophy, the MTN8 Cup, under the guidance of Spanish tactician Jose Riveiro, who has since moved to Egyptian side Al Ahly.

With Ouaddou at the helm, the Buccaneers aim to win multiple trophies, building on their semifinal appearance in the Champions League and runner-up finishes in the Nedbank Cup and Betway Premiership.

The team’s performance in these preseason games will be crucial in determining their success in the upcoming season.