After a decisive 2-0 victory over Polokwane City in the MTN8 quarter-finals, Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has made it clear that his team is aiming to win the tournament.
The result not only propels Pirates into the next round but also marks an impressive debut for Ouaddou in his first official match at the helm.
Read: Mixed emotions for Phuti Mohafe as Appollis inspires Orlando Pirates past Polokwane City
Key Moments from the Match
The Buccaneers took control of the game early at Orlando Stadium, with all the scoring happening in the first half. The opening goal came from new signing Oswin Appollis in the 13th minute, who was playing against his former club.
Appollis, a Bafana Bafana international, continued to be a key player throughout the half. He was also instrumental in winning a penalty, which was successfully converted by Patrick Maswanganyi in the 35th minute to secure the victory.
Ouaddou praised Appollis, who was named Man of the Match, but also gave credit to the entire squad. “When he is surrounded with good players you can even see the best of him,” Ouaddou told SuperSport after the game. “But not only him. I want to congratulate all my boys, he took the man of the match because of the collective.”
The Road Ahead
This quarter-final win is just the beginning for the Pirates, who have a history of success in this competition, having won the MTN8 for the past three seasons. Ouaddou is confident his team can continue that tradition.
“It’s a big victory for us but it’s not finished. We have to go through and the target is to win the MTN8,” he stated. “We know it’s not easy, but we will give our best to try and win it.”
The team’s next challenge will be a semi-final clash against Mamelodi Sundowns. The first leg of this two-legged tie will be hosted by the Buccaneers, with the draw taking place after Sundowns’ convincing 4-0 win over Richards Bay.