Abdeslam Ouaddou insists Orlando Pirates must stay grounded despite title push ahead of Soweto Derby

Nedbank Cup 2026: Abdeslam Ouaddou disappointed for players as Orlando Pirates make early Nedbank Cup exit

The Buccaneers eased to a 3-0 first round win over Amakhosi and come into this tie in some impressive form as they chase an elusive Betway Premiership title.

Ouaddou’s charges are in first place on the league standings with five games of their season to play – but just one point clear of second placed Mamelodi Sundowns, who have a game in hand.

Chiefs are, meanwhile, chasing a third place finish, with 46 points from 24 game, and are unbeaten in their last six games, including five wins.

“In sport and in this job [of being a coach] you need a lot of humility. Once you reach the target and stop working, that’s the beginning of the end. 

“So, we approach this derby with a lot of humility, not thinking too much about the result of the previous derby,” Ouaddou said ahead of the game, in the Sowetan.

READ: Orlando Pirates Striker Andre de Jong Eyes Soweto Derby Debut

“Sunday is another game, different context, different environment, Kaizer Chiefs have been in a very good shape over the last six games but we focus on ourselves and how we want to attack that game.”

“We will need everybody; players who will start, the impact players from the bench and our fans as well. 

“Our fans have been fantastic since the beginning of the season. They are our 12th man and we feel that when our fans are behind us, we fly,” Ouaddou added.