Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has made it clear that while reaching a fourth consecutive MTN8 final is a remarkable achievement, the team cannot afford to bask in the moment.
With the final looming, Ouaddou is urging his squad to remain focused and hungry for silverware.
The Mighty Buccaneers booked their place in the MTN8 showdown after a hard-fought semi-final clash against Mamelodi Sundowns at the Lucas Moripe Stadium
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Iqraam Rayners gave Pirates the early advantage, finding the back of the net with a composed finish. Sundowns responded through Kamogelo Sebelebele, whose equaliser ensured the match ended 1-1 after regular time.
The encounter went to penalties, where goalkeeper Sipho Chaine proved decisive, saving two spot-kicks to help Pirates triumph 4-1. Their reward is a clash with Stellenbosch on 13 September, a repeat of last year’s final.
Despite the cup success, Pirates’ league campaign has been inconsistent. Following back-to-back defeats to Sekhukhune United and Marumo Gallants, the Buccaneers managed a morale-boosting league win over Stellenbosch.
Ouaddou is now turning his focus to the upcoming fixture against Orbit College on Tuesday at Orlando Stadium, emphasising the importance of securing three points.
“I’m very happy for our fans who come in and pack the stadium. But when I leave this room my mind will be on the game against Orbit,” Ouaddou told the media during the post-match press conference.
“We don’t have time to celebrate… as a coach you have to quickly think about the next game. I’m doing my job and I’m going to prepare the strategy for the next game.”