Ouaddou: Staying On Top Is A Real Challenge

Orlando Pirates coach Abdelsam Ouaddou says his side has completed the most difficult task by climbing to the top of the Betway Premiership table, but the real challenge now is staying there until the end of the season.

Pirates moved to the summit after beating Durban City 2-0 at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.

They sit on 28 points after 12 matches, three points ahead of second-placed Mamelodi Sundowns.

However, Sundowns could reclaim top spot on Wednesday if they beat Siwelele at Dr. Molemela Stadium.

This is shaping up to be one of the most fiercely contested seasons in years, with Pirates chasing their first league title since the 2011/12 season.

Sundowns, meanwhile, have dominated the Premiership for the past eight campaigns, while Pirates have finished as runners-up in the last three seasons.

“I think any coach who comes to a big club has that target — to be on top,” said Ouaddou.

“Of course, it was our target. It’s not only mine; it’s collective work. I’m not working alone — it’s a team objective. Like I’ve said before, it’s a good thing to be on top of the table halfway through the season. Being number one is important.

“But the most difficult thing is staying in that position. To remain there, we must keep working and stay humble because there are many very good sides in the PSL, and the level is very high.

“If you lose focus, stop working, or think you’ve already won the title, things can become difficult.

“I urge my players to keep working hard because the PSL is at a very high level — it’s one of the best leagues in Africa.”

Had Pirates played their match against Richards Bay on Tuesday — and won — they would have opened a six-point gap over Sundowns before they play on Wednesday, heading into the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations break.

However, the match was postponed, giving Pirates more time to prepare for the Carling Knockout Cup final against Marumo Gallants at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday.