Ouaddou highlights what he expects from Orlando Pirates

Orlando Pirates FC coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has revealed what he told his team to improve on in terms of passing the ball during a training match with Cypriot side Patos FC on Sunday.

The Moroccan gave his candid analysis of the match which ended 1-1 during the pre-season tour of Spain.

Going into Sunday’s game, the former Marumo Gallants trainer cited game aspects he felt cost the Buccaneers when they met Bolton Wanderers and lost 2-0 on Friday.

He said: “We had control [but] maybe we lost the control in the second half but in terms of possession, we were ok. What I asked the guys was to try and find more forward passes because in the first game [against Bolton Wanderers], we played too much laterally and that game we found a lot of vertical passes. We don’t have to forget that we had many chances to win that game.”

Ouaddou said he was impressed with how Pirates are shaping up ahead of the 2025-2026 Betway Premiership season.

“It is a fantastic performance because even physically, you can see that our team is getting better and better. I am happy about the performance of the guys,” the coach added.

The Soweto giants will now take on Spanish La Liga outfits Las Palmas and Granada next Thursday and Saturday.