Abdeslam Ouaddou has commended Simphiwe Masilela for finding the net in Orlando Pirates’ 3-0 win over TS Galaxy, while challenging the young midfielder to turn his flair on the ball into more goals and assists.
The Buccaneers returned to winning ways on Tuesday following their MTN8 final defeat by Mamelodi Sundowns, with Masilela among the scorers as Pirates maintained their unbeaten start to the Premiership season.
Ouaddou revealed he had spoken to Masilela about improving his forward movement and becoming more effective in possession, saying those qualities were essential for a talented modern midfielder.
“I spoke to the boy actually, he started to be more efficient, to have the verticality to go more forward against Marumo,” the Pirates coach told SuperSport.
“I just tried to explain to him this is what we want from you, this is what modern football craves for a talented player like you.”
READ: Orlando Pirates Thrash TS Galaxy to Keep Pressure on Sundowns
Ouaddou stressed that he had no intention of restricting Masilela’s creativity, provided it served a clear attacking purpose.
“If you want to go forward, be efficient, use the verticality, the coach never stopped him doing show-boating,” he said. “Make three goals, put four goals, go forward.”
The coach added that Masilela’s ability to beat opponents and operate between the lines was valuable when combined with a determination to advance the attack.
“Congratulations to him and I’m very happy for him, I’m very happy for his family as well. They should be happy tonight for him and I hope he’s going to continue to work.”
Ouaddou’s message was clear: Masilela has the talent to make a difference, but continued progress will depend on turning individual skill into meaningful contributions for Pirates.