Ouaddou stays grounded after Pirates’ victory over Lioli

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has refused to read too much into what appears to be a comfortable lead over Lioli FC in the CAF Champions League first preliminary round, first leg.

The Buccaneers sailed to a convincing 3-0 win over the Lesotho champions at Free State Stadium on Saturday. That places them in a commanding position ahead of the return leg at Orlando Stadium next Saturday.

After being frustrated by Lioli for a goalless first half, Pirates returned to turn on the heat on their visitors with Tshegofatso Mabasa grabbing a brace and Oswin Appollis adding his name to the scoresheet.

On an afternoon, the Soweto giants faced lesser-known opponents who had little experience in continental football, Ouaddou still summoned a full-strength starting line-up in a show of how serious he was taking this match.

By starting Relebohile Mofokeng and Appollis in the same game while Mabasa led the line, the coach’s attacking intentions were clear, although the opening half yielded no goals.

OUADDOU REMAINS CAUTIOUS AFTER CAF CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FIRST LEG WIN

The former Fulham defender is not getting away and is refusing to view his men as having one foot in the second preliminary round of this competition, even after what seems to be a big win.

“It’s only the first half, we still have the second half in a few days’ time,” said Ouaddou post-match. “We are going to rest players and focus on the next game. It’s so crucial to manage such many players, especially when you play in many competitions.

“It’s very important to keep the harmony, and sometimes you can have talented, good players, but you need some competency and quality as well. Human qualities to manage the good players to keep trusting and giving you everything in the game. So, it’s what we are trying to do with my staff.”

Before they host Lioli, Pirates will be at Free State Stadium again, but this time as Siwelele FC’s guests for Tuesday’s Betway Premiership clash.