Abdeslam Ouaddou: The players are ready, they know exactly what they have to do

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has expressed confidence in his players ahead of their CAF Champions League second-leg encounter against African Stars, with the Buccaneers looking to protect their narrow 1-0 advantage and secure qualification for the next round.

The Soweto giants head into the home fixture knowing that their first-leg victory has placed them in a favourable position. However, Ouaddou understands that the job is not complete and that his team must deliver another disciplined performance to avoid giving their opponents an opportunity to turn the tie around.

Pirates will also be eager to make a strong statement in this season’s continental campaign after suffering a painful elimination last term. Their hopes were ended by FC Saint-Eloi Lupopo, who overturned a 3-0 deficit before eventually eliminating the South African side on penalties. That experience highlighted how quickly circumstances can change in continental football.

Despite that disappointment, Ouaddou insists his players are focused on the challenge ahead rather than dwelling on previous setbacks.

“The players are ready, they know exactly what they have to do,” said Ouaddou speaking to the media. “We need the whole team connected, to row on the same side together to reach the target. There are no nerves we are impatient to play that game.”

The coach’s comments underline the importance of unity and concentration as Pirates prepare for a match that could shape their ambitions in Africa’s premier club competition.

With home advantage on their side, the Buccaneers will hope to control possession, create scoring opportunities and prevent African Stars from gaining momentum. At the same time, they must remain defensively organised, knowing that conceding an early goal could increase the pressure.

African Stars, meanwhile, will be determined to produce a strong performance and keep their qualification hopes alive. Pirates cannot afford to underestimate their opponents, particularly given the unpredictable nature of two-legged continental ties.

For Ouaddou and his squad, the immediate objective is clear: finish the job at home and advance to the next stage. A convincing performance would not only secure progression but also strengthen confidence within the team as the competition becomes more demanding.

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