Ouaddou Speaks Out After Road Accident
Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has spoken out for the first time after being involved in a road traffic accident alongside his five staff members.
The defending champions have started with their preparations for their MTN8 final clash against Stellenbosch FC, having suffered trauma after Ouaddou and five staff members were involved in a road traffic accident as they were returning from a 3-0 victory over Chippa United from Gqeberha on 30 July.
Ouaddou has decided to place his focus on the final, noting that he doesn’t want to put much attention on this incident.
“I think that we are preparing well, like I told you. Everyone is focused on that event, everybody wants to start that game,” said Ouaddou.
“It’s very important for our players, for our fans, for the club. So, of course, the club has stated this accident, but I think it’s not the right place to speak about that.”
“I want to focus on our game, and to answer you for the preparation of that game, I can tell you that all my players are fully focused on that event, and they are preparing well, and we’re focused on that game.”
Amabhakaniya will play against Stellenbosch at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday.
This encounter marks the fourth consecutive time Pirates reach the final of this competition, with the former coach Jose Riverio leading them to three successes of this title.
Ouaddou will be hoping to clinch the trophy, which will make it his first trophy since he took over Pirates as the first South African club to coach.
Meanwhile, Ouaddou has provided updates on Patrick Maswanganyi and that he will be available for this clash after being dropped from Bafana Bafana due to an injury, and was replaced by his teammate Sipho Mbule.
“Yes, if you can see him on the pitch, it means that the medical department has given him the green light to be there,” said Ouaddou when asked if Maswangayi will be ready for the final.
“So, I’m happy that he’s coming back, it seems not to be so serious, so all the time when my players are injured, I’m very sad, so I’m happy that he’s with us.”
