Despite the glittering atmosphere of the MTN8 final, Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou carried himself with remarkable humility after guiding his side to yet another title triumph on Saturday.
The Buccaneers outclassed Stellenbosch FC with a 3-0 win at a sold-out Mbombela Stadium, claiming the MTN8 crown for a record-breaking fourth consecutive year. As the trophy was lifted to a roar of celebration, Ouaddou shifted the spotlight away from himself, dedicating the victory to those within the club still affected by a recent car accident, including captain Thapelo Xoki, who continues his recovery.
โThis win is for them,โ Ouaddou said in his pitch-side interview, visibly emotional as he reflected on the difficult journey. He also paid tribute to his technical team, singling out goalkeeper coach Tyrone Damons, who is still on the mend from the same accident.
Overcoming Hurdles on the Road to Glory
Piratesโ path to the final was far from smooth. They had to battle past Polokwane City and arch-rivals Mamelodi Sundowns in earlier rounds before meeting a spirited Stellenbosch side in the decider.
The final itself remained locked at 0-0 after 90 tense minutes, forcing the clash into extra time. It was there that Ouaddouโs tactical tweaks paid off handsomely. Winger Tshepang Moremi struck twice, and striker Tshegofatso Mabasa added a third to put the result beyond doubt.
Critics Still Watching
For Ouaddou, the triumph carries a deeper meaning. Not only did he survive the accident that shook the club earlier this season, but he also endured persistent calls for his dismissal in the face of inconsistent performances.
โWinning the MTN8 has not magically converted my critics into supporters,โ he admitted. โBut my ideas were always there, even when people doubted them. Success doesnโt come without challenges.โ
Legacy and the Road Ahead
By sealing their fourth straight MTN8 title, the Buccaneers have etched another chapter into South African football history. More importantly, the win suggests brighter days ahead under Ouaddouโs guidance, as he continues to build his vision for the Soweto giants.
For now, though, the humble coach is content to let the achievement belong to his players, his staff, and the Pirates family that stood together through adversity.
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