Ouaddou warns rivals as Pirates’ squad depth drives title push

ORLANDO Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has warned their counterparts not to predict their starting lineup or match-day squad, as they have enough depth at their disposal to tweak and change the team.

- MIHLALI BALEKA.

Pirates have been the most consistent side domestically. They are the record-extending four-time MTN8 champions, and have reached the Carling Knockout final for the first time since its inception two seasons ago.

But that’s not all. They are making strides where it matters most: the Betway Premiership. Pirates haven't won the league since 2012, and they know that the greatest honour they can achieve is being crowned kings of the land.

Given the fact that they are level with reigning champions and log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns on 25 points — following their 2-0 win over Chippa United on Tuesday night — they could well reach the promised land for the first time in 14 years.

Ouaddou is going about his business in style. He’s stretching his squad to the limit, rotating players for domestic matches, especially after they were eliminated from continental football in the preliminary qualifiers.