Oudaddou ready to lead Pirates despite setback

ORLANDO Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has declared his side fully prepared for Saturday's MTN8 final against Stellenbosch FC at Mbombela Stadium (6pm kickoff), despite a challenging buildup this past fortnight.

- OBAKENG MELETSE

The Buccaneers head into the clash against a fresh Stellies outfit with much of their squad only returning this week from national team duty with Bafana Bafana in Fifa World Cup 2026 qualifiers against Lesotho and Nigeria.

Before the international break, the Sea Robbers had generated strong momentum with a convincing 3-0 victory over Chippa United. The mood in the camp, however, was shaken when Ouaddou and members of his technical staff were involved in a post-match road accident returning from Gqerberha.

Although still recovering with one arm in a sling, the Moroccan tactician will lead his team from the dugout on Saturday in the final.

Ouaddou emphasised on Tuesday that all attention remains firmly on the final and securing their second consecutive win against Stellies this season, despite the recent challenges.

“Everyone knows that it’s a big event for the club and the fans,” he said.