Ouaddou Discusses Squad Strategy Amid Busy Fixture Schedule

Orlando Pirates head coach, Abdeslam Ouaddou, has opened up on how setting objectives is helping his side make the most of their games in hand as they look to compete on all fronts.

Ouaddou’s side have played eight games in the Betway Premiership this season, due to their continental endeavors, which is two games short of the total number they should’ve played thus far.

Despite a congested fixture schedule, Pirates are expected to be competitive on all fronts this season, as they’ve already proved to be, with their MTN8 win less than two months ago [13 September 2025].

“When you start a season with a new club and new players, it’s important to give sense to your work and training. Setting objectives for players is crucial, and that’s what we do,” said Ouaddou.

This systematic approach to utilizing their games in hand has proven successful so far, as the Moroccans’ side finds itself in third place on the log standings following a 1-0 win over Polokwane City on Wednesday night.

“Waking up each day, you need to give meaning to your life and actions. Thus, it’s vital to set objectives, and we remind the players during training before games to keep them focused,” Ouaddou emphasized.

These objectives, alongside fixture congestion, have increased the need for squad rotation, evidenced in the win over Polokwane, where players like Yanela Mbuthuma and Siyabonga Ndlozi were given playing time.

“It was essential to provide all players with an opportunity. Given our participation in several competitions, we respect all teams and utilize fitness to evaluate player readiness,” said Ouaddou.

The victory over Rise and Shine marked Pirates’ second match in three days, with a return leg of the CAF Champions League Second Preliminary Round encounter looming against St Eloi Lupopo.

“We are mindful of the Saturday game, and thus it was natural to rotate the players,” concluded Ouaddou regarding his squad’s strategy.

The Bucs faithful will certainly be hoping that Ouaddou’s objective-setting to contend with fixture congestion works wonders as they aim to overturn a three-goal deficit against FC Saint Eloi Lupopo at Orlando Stadium on Saturday.