Pirates Captain Nkosinathi Sibisi Reveals What Abdeslam Ouaddou Demands Ahead of Soweto Derby

Orlando Pirates captain Nkosinathi Sibisi has revealed the high standards demanded by head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou as the Buccaneers prepare for their highly anticipated Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium.

Pirates head into Saturday’s Betway Premiership encounter with confidence following their convincing 3-0 victory over Milford FC in the Carling Knockout Cup on Tuesday. However, despite the comfortable scoreline, Ouaddou was reportedly dissatisfied with certain aspects of his team’s performance, particularly their missed opportunities and decision-making in the final third.

Speaking ahead of the derby, Sibisi explained that Ouaddou expects nothing less than excellence from his players, regardless of the result. According to the Pirates captain, the Moroccan coach maintains exceptionally high standards and is never afraid to highlight mistakes, even after convincing victories.

“For some of us who have been with him for the past season, it’s been easier for us to understand what he wants and what he demands,” Sibisi explained, adding that the newer players were also learning to adapt to the coach’s philosophy.

The defender emphasised that Ouaddou does not settle for satisfactory performances but constantly pushes his squad to improve.

“I think everyone who just came in also learned and understands him because he doesn’t demand good, he wants excellence,” Sibisi said.

He further revealed that Ouaddou remains direct when assessing performances, even when Pirates win by significant margins.

“Whenever we win 3-0 or 4-0 or 8-0, he will say straight. He is a straight talker, so for us it is to take it in a positive manner and push.”

Sibisi’s comments highlight the mentality Ouaddou is attempting to establish at Pirates, where winning alone is not considered sufficient. The coach wants his players to remain disciplined, clinical and focused throughout every match.

With Kaizer Chiefs awaiting them in one of South African football’s biggest fixtures, Pirates will need to turn those standards into a strong performance. The derby presents an opportunity for the Buccaneers to demonstrate their progress while maintaining the consistency required to compete for major honours this season.

Source:

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