Orlando Pirates' head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou attributes the team's success in cup competitions to a winning mentality inherited from his predecessor, Jose Riveiro. Ouaddou believes that the foundation for this mentality was already in place when he took charge of the team. He notes that the club has consistently shown an ability to raise their level when trophies are on the line, particularly in cup competitions. This mentality has contributed to Pirates' impressive trophy record, which includes eight trophies over the past five seasons.
Under Riveiro and now Ouaddou, Orlando Pirates have developed a reputation for delivering when silverware is at stake. Their recent trophy record reflects this consistency, with four consecutive MTN8 titles, two Nedbank Cups, the Carling Knockout, and the Betway Premiership. Ouaddou stresses that the club does not treat any competition as secondary, citing the commitment shown by his players as evidence of the importance attached to every opportunity to win silverware. This approach has become a defining part of Pirates' identity.
Ouaddou took charge of Pirates after Riveiro's departure and immediately recognized a culture built around winning. He made it his responsibility to maintain those standards rather than introduce an entirely new philosophy. The Moroccan coach notes that he found a mentality of winners when he first arrived at the club, and his priority was to preserve this standard. He believes that this mentality is particularly evident in cup competitions, where Pirates have consistently performed well.
As Pirates prepare for a quarterfinal clash against Sekhukhune United in the Carling Knockout Cup, Ouaddou emphasized the importance of the competition. He pointed to the way his players approach the cup, demonstrating their commitment to winning. The team's hunger for success has not diminished despite their recent trophy haul, with Ouaddou stating that he found hunger at the club and that they are "still starving." This mentality is crucial in sustaining the team's successful run.
The continuity between the Riveiro and Ouaddou eras is evident in the team's approach to competitions. While the coaches have their own approaches, the expectation of competing for trophies has remained a defining part of Pirates' identity. For a club whose supporters demand success, this expectation also brings pressure. However, Ouaddou believes that the hunger within the dressing room remains central to the club's ambitions.
Ouaddou's comments highlight the importance of preserving the winning mentality at Pirates. He stressed that winning trophies has not made the team comfortable, and the desire for more remains central to their ambitions. The challenge now is to sustain that standard across domestic competitions. With Pirates continuing to compete on multiple fronts, their ability to approach every cup campaign with the same urgency could prove important in extending their successful run.
As Pirates move forward, Ouaddou's focus will be on maintaining the team's winning mentality. He recognizes that the trophies may be accumulating, but the hunger must remain. The team's impressive run has not gone unnoticed, with their growing global appeal evident in their recent recognition by All Blacks players. With their sights set on further success, Pirates will look to build on their reputation as a team that delivers when it matters most.
Key points
- Orlando Pirates have collected eight trophies over the past five seasons, including four consecutive MTN8 titles.
- Abdeslam Ouaddou inherited a winning mentality from Jose Riveiro, which has contributed to Pirates' success in cup competitions.
- The team's hunger for success has not diminished despite their recent trophy haul, with Ouaddou stating that they are "still starving."
