“They Are Human Beings”: Why Ouaddou is Begging Pirates Fans Not To Boo During The Soweto Derby
Orlando Pirates coach Abdelsam Ouaddou has urged “The Ghost” to refrain from booing their own players, warning that negativity only adds stress ahead of Sunday’s high-stakes Betway Premiership clash against Kaizer Chiefs.
Ouaddou said it is disheartening to hear fans booing the team, particularly at a crucial stage of the season as Pirates battle Mamelodi Sundowns for the league title.
Pirates will retain top spot if they defeat Chiefs in the 185th Soweto Derby at FNB Stadium, although they will have played two more matches than second-placed Sundowns, who are scheduled to play later against Richards Bay at Umhlathuze Sports Complex.
The Soweto giants, chasing their first league title since 2012, currently lead the standings with 58 points from 25 matches.
Sundowns, who had the opportunity to go top on Wednesday, were held to a 1–1 draw by Stellenbosch at Loftus Versfeld and sit second with 57 points from 24 games.
Pirates will be counting on strong support as they look to complete a league double over Chiefs for the second consecutive season, having won the reverse fixture 3–0 in February.
“My message is to thank the fans for their support since the beginning of the season,” said Ouaddou.
“I know there are important moments they are looking forward to, and I ask them to stay behind us. Wherever we go in South Africa, our fans are always with us.
“We expect the same during this game. I know the stadium will be packed, and that will work in our favour.
“When the players feel the support and love from the fans, they express themselves more freely on the pitch. But when they feel pressure — for example, when they are booed — it affects them. We are all human beings.
“They have minds, they can feel stress, and that can impact their performance. We need the supporters behind us if we are to reach our target.
“There are still five games to go. As I’ve said before, this team is made up of warriors.
“The players have a strong fighting spirit, and we will fight until the last game, the last minute, and the last second, no matter what happens.”
