Ouaddou Expresses Delight Over Moremi’s National Team Call-Up
Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has expressed his delight over Tshepang Moremi’s first national team call-up since joining the Buccaneers.
The 25-year-old winger has been in outstanding form since joining Pirates during the off-season from AmaZulu, and his impressive performances have earned him a spot in the Bafana squad.
“I’m not surprised, and I always say that for people who believe in the work, they can have big gifts at the end of the day,” Ouaddou said.
“As a player, you have to believe in your qualities, you have to work hard to be very professional, and you have to manage your life. I always tell my players that they are professionals and they have to believe in themselves.”
Moremi’s call-up was richly deserved. He scored twice from the bench as Pirates won the MTN8 against Stellenbosch last month at the Mbombela Stadium. He also assisted Tshegofatso Mabasa’s goal in extra time, helping the Pirates win the tournament and also winning the man of the match award.
Although it’s not his first national team call-up, having previously been called up while playing for Usuthu, his form has been consistent, and he has been a key player for the Buccaneers.
Moremi’s call-up is not the only one from Pirates, as the Buccaneers have had a strong representation in the Bafana squad.
Other Pirates players who have been called up include Sipho Chaine, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Thalente Mbatha, Relebohile Mofokeng, Oswin Appollis, and Sipho Mbule. The Buccaneers are the team with the most players in the Bafana squad.
“We are not like other people, we play in the space of three days and we have to work hard,” Ouaddou added.
“So, I’m not surprised, I’m happy for him [Moremi] and I’m happy for all the players who’ve been called to the national team.”
Bafana will face two crucial games in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers this month, taking on Zimbabwe on 10 October at Moses Mabhida Stadium and Rwanda on 14 October at Mbombela Stadium.
