From 'plumber' to champion: Ouaddou's roller coaster at Bucs

In a matter of weeks, Pirates' new coach has endured the wrath of fans, survived a life-threatening crash and celebrated an MTN8 triumph. By Yanga Sibembe

- By Yanga Sibembe

Abdeslam Ouaddou's start to life as Orlando Pirates coach has been a roller coaster.

The Moroccan former professional footballer has endured highs and lows since his first official match in charge of the Sea Robbers.

Ouaddou lost his first two Premiership matches at the helm after replacing Spanish tactician José Riveiro. The latter was highly successful during his three-year stay in Orlando, as he reached six finals and won five of them. Anyone who succeeded him in the Pirates hot seat was going to be under immense pressure.

Despite being sceptical about Riveiro at first, the Pirates grew to love the Spaniard. They even went as far as naming him the “Spanish Guitar” because of his immense success — saying he helped the Buccaneers play a number of sweet notes.

Riveiro chose not to renew his contract when it expired, and he moved to Egyptian giants Al Ahly in May. He has since been sacked by the record 12-times African champions after a poor start to life in Cairo.

Upon Riveiro's departure, Pirates supporters dreamt of their team hiring a popular local coach such as Pitso Mosimane or Rulani Mokwena. Instead, the Pirates hierarchy opted for Ouaddou.

The former defender-turned-tactician represented teams such as Fulham and Rennes as a player, and earned well over 50 caps for his country.

As a coach, the Pirates job is Ouaddou's biggest. In his short time as a senior head coach, the 46-year-old has taken charge of teams such as the Democratic Republic of Congo's AS Vita and South African side Marumo Gallants.

After losing his two Premiership matches at Pirates, murmurs that Ouaddou would undo Riveiro's great work grew louder.