“He’s an Extra Outfield Player” – Ouaddou Hails Chaine As Pirates’ Secret Weapon In Title Charge

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has hailed goalkeeper Sipho Chaine as the “vital component” of the club’s tactical structure.

Chaine leads the Betway Premiership with 17 clean sheets in 24 matches, anchoring the Buccaneers’ push for silverwar.

Since joining Pirates from Chippa United in 2022, Chaine has developed into one of the most reliable figures in the squad, playing a crucial role in the club’s recent success.

The 29-year-old has already collected two individual accolades during his time at the club, including last season’s Betway Premiership Goalkeeper of the Season award. He was also named MTN8 Player of the Tournament in 2024.

Chaine’s consistency has been outstanding this season, as he currently leads the league in clean sheets with 17 in 24 matches. His performances continue to improve, putting him in strong contention to retain the Goalkeeper of the Season award for a second consecutive campaign.

Beyond his shot-stopping ability, Chaine’s composure on the ball has made him an essential part of Ouaddou’s system. His ability to initiate attacks from deep and operate as an extra outfield player allows Pirates to maintain their structure while progressing play effectively.

Following Pirates’ 3–0 victory over AmaZulu on Saturday—where Chaine once again delivered a commanding performance and kept another clean sheet—Ouaddou elaborated on his team’s approach and the importance of understanding different phases of the game.

“Look, in our game model you can see that we play a positional game and sometimes a transitional game,” he said.

“Our players understand how to organise themselves depending on the phase of play. This is part of our model—they must learn to play both positional and transitional football.

“They also need to understand that in certain moments we must play with speed. In those situations, we still need patience because it remains a positional game. We try to attract the opponent, especially when they press with one or two players.

“We want to draw them in and then find the free player. Sometimes you will see Sipho play quickly because the situation demands it in order to find that free man.

“He played very well, kept a clean sheet, and I am really happy for him.”

Shifting focus to the collective effort, the former Morocco international emphasised that Pirates maintain the same mentality regardless of the venue, insisting that every match is approached with the intention to win.

“I think we simply follow our philosophy. We have a group of players we trust,” he added.

“Everyone is involved in the project, and we approach every game to win. There is no difference between home and away matches where I change my mindset and say we should play for a draw.

“When you coach Pirates, that mentality does not exist—you play attacking football both home and away, and that is what we have been doing.

“We have had many positive moments this season. Of course, sometimes you face opponents who challenge you because they are brave and well organised, as some teams have been.

“But that does not take away from the good work our team has done. We will continue fighting, and I appreciate the fighting spirit the team shows, even in difficult matches.

“AmaZulu is one of the best teams in South Africa, and we managed to control the game while also giving them a tough challenge.”

Pirates will now turn their attention to their next fixture—a highly anticipated Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs next Sunday. Chaine will be eager to maintain his impressive form as the Buccaneers look to build momentum heading into the decisive stages of the season.