Beware of Him– Abdeslam Ouaddou Exposes The Chiefs Mastermind Set To Ruin Pirates’ Derby Dreams

Ouaddou Identifies a Familiar Chiefs Figure Who Could Make the Soweto Derby More Challenging for Pirates

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has admitted that Saturday’s highly anticipated Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs could present a different challenge, particularly because of the presence of someone he knows well within the Amakhosi technical team.

The two Soweto giants are preparing for another exciting encounter, with both sides fully aware of the importance of securing bragging rights in one of South African football’s biggest fixtures. However, beyond the rivalry between the players, the tactical battle between the two coaching departments could also play a significant role in determining the outcome.

Ouaddou understands that facing Chiefs requires more than simply preparing for the players on the pitch. The Pirates mentor is also aware that familiar footballing relationships can provide valuable insight into how an opponent approaches important matches.

The familiar figure is believed to be Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz, whose appointment has brought a new dimension to the rivalry. The two coaches have experience in European football, making their professional backgrounds an interesting talking point ahead of the encounter.

Ouaddou has acknowledged that Chiefs are no longer the same team Pirates faced previously. He believes the introduction of a new coach, fresh ideas and renewed energy could make Saturday’s contest particularly demanding.

The Pirates coach has also been careful not to allow his team’s impressive performances to create unnecessary confidence. Although the Buccaneers have enjoyed a strong run of results, he knows that the Soweto Derby is a fixture where previous form and league positions can quickly become irrelevant.

The 2026/27 season has already demonstrated that Pirates have the quality to compete for major honours. The Buccaneers have collected impressive results in domestic competitions and remain among the leading contenders in the Betway Premiership. Their recent 3-0 victory over Milford FC in the Carling Knockout Cup has further strengthened their confidence.

However, Ouaddou has warned that those achievements will count for very little when the two rivals meet. He wants his players to approach the match with concentration, discipline and the right mentality.

Speaking ahead of the encounter, the Moroccan tactician also recognised the importance of Chiefs’ technical changes. He explained that the introduction of new leadership has brought fresh energy and ideas to the Amakhosi setup, something Pirates must be prepared to deal with.

Chiefs, meanwhile, will be encouraged by their 3-0 victory over TS Galaxy, with Wandile Duba stealing the headlines after scoring a remarkable hat-trick. The result has provided a timely confidence boost for Fernando Da Cruz and his players ahead of the biggest fixture on the South African football calendar.

The Soweto Derby is scheduled for Saturday, 31 October, at FNB Stadium, with kick-off set for 15:30. Both teams will be desperate to deliver a strong performance in front of their passionate supporters.

For Ouaddou, the challenge is clear: Pirates must respect their opponents, remain focused on their tactical responsibilities and avoid allowing their favourites status to become a distraction.

With the experience of both coaching departments and the quality available in the two squads, supporters can expect an intense contest.

Ultimately, the battle could be decided by small tactical details, individual brilliance and which team handles the pressure more effec

Sources https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2116186327225978991?a=hqCEJ2jNkUFKZ_i9U0I&s=19

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