The Soweto giants will attempt to become the first team to win the competition five times in succession when they meet the Brazilians at Moses Mabhida Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 18:00.
Pirates have lifted the trophy in each of the past four seasons, establishing themselves as the dominant force in the competition. However, Ouaddou is aware that their record will count for little unless they deliver another disciplined performance against a Sundowns side determined to reclaim the title they last won in 2021.
The Moroccan coach believes their previous successes could provide a psychological boost, although he insists the outcome will depend on how his players approach the occasion.
“It’s a different game, different era. You have to prepare for it with a lot of ambition and seriousness. These things can help mentally, but the reality will be the match itself and how we attack the match,” Ouaddou told the media.
He added that cup finals require a different mentality from league matches, with determination and composure often proving as important as tactical preparation.
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For Ouaddou, the opening stages, defensive concentration and the ability to convert limited scoring opportunities could determine which side lifts the trophy.
The Pirates coach also highlighted the importance of maintaining organisation, discipline and communication throughout the match, while having players capable of producing moments of individual creativity.
“You have to be efficient in the two areas of truth – the two boxes,” he said. “In a cup final you will not get so many chances and you have to convert them.”
Pirates will also be hoping to draw inspiration from the support they traditionally enjoy in Durban, where Ouaddou expects the travelling fans to provide an additional lift.
The coach expressed his satisfaction with preparations for the final, although the international break disrupted the process, with 12 players away on national-team duty before returning to the club.
“We had around two weeks to prepare for this game. We missed some of the international players, like many teams, but at least the rhythm and the focus were on that game,” he said.
Ouaddou described the final as an important occasion for South African football, emphasising the opportunity for both teams to showcase the country’s quality to a wider audience.
Saturday’s encounter pits Pirates’ recent dominance in the MTN8 against a Sundowns side that has enjoyed sustained success in the Betway Premiership and recently won the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup following a victory over Al Ahli Saudi.
The Brazilians will be eager to end Pirates’ run, while the Buccaneers will look to maintain their impressive record in the competition.
Pirates could also have selection decisions to make, with winger Mohau Nkota, striker Evidence Makgopa and midfielder Thalente Mbatha among the players whose availability remained uncertain. Ouaddou confirmed that the club’s medical department was working to get them ready, but stopped short of confirming their involvement.
With the final sold out, both teams will face considerable pressure in a contest where the smallest details could prove decisive.