“He Gets It Now”: Ouaddou Reveals Why Maswanganyi Is Finally Dominating For Pirates
Orlando Pirates coach Abdelsam Ouaddou has highlighted the importance of Patrick Maswanganyi’s recent form, saying the midfielder is finding his rhythm at the perfect time for the club.
Maswanganyi, who was named the PSL Players’ Player of the Season for the 2023/24 campaign, was among the scorers as Pirates defeated struggling bottom side Magesi FC 3-0 at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday to strengthen their push for the Betway Premiership title.
He also scored and provided an assist in Pirates’ 2-0 victory over Stellenbosch FC at Athlone Stadium in midweek, after struggling for consistency earlier in the season.
Ouaddou, who was appointed at the beginning of the campaign, explained that Maswanganyi initially found it difficult to adapt to the intensity and demands of his playing style, which resulted in limited game time.
The No. 10 role was often occupied by Relebohile Mofokeng, who is widely tipped to win the PSL Footballer of the Season award.
However, whenever he was given an opportunity, Maswanganyi made a strong impact. He has scored nine goals and provided three assists in 31 appearances this season, making him Pirates’ most efficient per-minute attacker this season
“Fantastic,” said Ouaddou.
“I think it is fantastic, first of all, for him, and fantastic for the club. When you play in that position, that is what we expect from him.
“I’m very proud of him. I think he has now found his feet and adapted to the intensity we are asking for because, at the beginning of the season, maybe the way I wanted us to play was a little too intense for him.
“But now he understands it. He knows the expectations, especially in the position he is playing. He can score, provide assists, and he has the freedom to operate in those areas. He helps the team a lot with controlling the ball, especially in the heart of the game.
“It is very important to have a player like that.”
Ouaddou will be relying on Maswanganyi in Pirates’ final two matches of the season — against Durban City at Orlando Amstel Arena on 16 May, and Orbit College FC at Royal Bafokeng Stadium on 23 May — as they chase their first league title since the 2011/12 season.
Pirates are second in the Betway Premiership standings with 65 points from 28 matches, three behind Mamelodi Sundowns, although they still have a game in hand and possess a superior goal difference.
