“You Cannot Have Small Dreams” – Ouaddou’s Ghosts Target Continental Glory
Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou says reaching the CAF Champions League group stages brings a welcome responsibility, urging his side to dream big and target winning Africa’s premier club competition.
The Buccaneers thrashed Namibian outfit African Stars 4-0 in the second leg of their second preliminary round tie at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday, advancing 5-0 on aggregate.
Pirates now stand as South Africa’s sole representative in the tournament after defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns crashed out on away goals to Angolan side Wiliete SC following a 1-1 draw at Loftus Versfeld.
Reaching the group stage allows the Sea Robbers to make amends for last season’s heartbreak, where they exited at the same stage on penalties against Congolese side Saint-Éloi Lupopo.
“I think it is a good challenge for me because we failed last season. I say ‘I’ because I take full responsibility as the coach,” Ouaddou said.
“I felt the pain of missing out on the group stage, so this is a gift for our fans. But now we must stay ambitious and aim to go far in this competition.”
Pirates famously lifted the Champions League title in 1995 and reached the final in 2013, where they fell to Egyptian giants Al Ahly. In the 2024/25 campaign, the Soweto giants reached the semi-finals before losing to eventual champions Pyramids FC.
Ouaddou, who is preparing for his first taste of Champions League group stage football as a head coach, insists his squad must set their sights on adding a second star to the crest.
“You have to dream big if you want to achieve something—you cannot have small dreams,” Ouaddou added. “I told the guys: let’s believe, let’s dream, and why not bring home the second star? If we work hard, stay professional, and believe, everything is possible.”
With their continental place secured, Pirates host Milford FC in the Carling Knockout Round of 16 at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday.
