Glad to Make the Semi-Final, But Not in That Manner: Ouaddou

November 7, 2026 sportnow Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou expressed that the final score might have been much more favorable for his team following their 1–0 victory against Sekhukhune United, which ensured their place in the Carling Knockout semi-finals at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday. The Buccaneers had to put in a strong effort to overcome Sekhukhune as they strive to defend the title they claimed last season.

It was a challenging contest for the Soweto giants, marking their fourth win over Sekhukhune in all competitions this season, having netted seven goals without allowing a single response.

Pirates approached the match in excellent cup form, having previously defeated Sekhukhune 4–0 on aggregate in the two-legged MTN8 semi-finals and securing a 2–0 win during their Betway Premiership clash in Soweto.

Although Sekhukhune managed a 1–0 victory in Soweto last season, they have been unable to score against Pirates in their last four encounters.

“Our goal was to advance to the next round,” Ouaddou shared with SuperSport TV post-match.

“When you’re up against the same team four times consecutively, they won’t just hand you the win; we noticed they were prepared.

“They played with aggression and tight formations, making it hard to find openings. However, we did manage to score in the first half, which was our objective, and that allowed us more space to operate.

“To be honest, I feel the match could have ended with three or four additional goals in our advantage, but credit to the boys.

“We’ve advanced to the semi-finals, but we need to exert more effort to control the matches because our performance was far from ideal. I’m pleased to be in the semi-finals, but not in this way. We need to enhance our game.”

By making it to the last four, Pirates join Mamelodi Sundowns in the semi-finals. The remaining quarter-final matches are set for Sunday, featuring Stellenbosch hosting AmaZulu and Kaizer Chiefs facing Siwelele, followed closely by the official semi-final draw.