SHOCKING CAF SNUB: Orlando Pirates Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou Overlooked Despite Historic Treble Triumph

SOUTH AFRICAN FOOTBALL NEWS | 4 NOVEMBER 2026

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has become a talking point among South African football supporters after being surprisingly overlooked for the 2026 CAF Men’s Coach of the Year award.

The Moroccan tactician enjoyed a memorable campaign with the Buccaneers last season, guiding the Soweto giants to a historic domestic treble. However, despite his outstanding achievements, his name was missing when CAF announced its nominees for the prestigious individual award.

The omission has raised eyebrows, particularly among Orlando Pirates supporters who believe Ouaddou deserved recognition for the remarkable work he accomplished at the club.

Taking charge of Pirates came with enormous expectations, considering the club's history, passionate supporters and ambition to compete for major honours. Nevertheless, Ouaddou managed to make a significant impact, transforming those expectations into silverware.

His biggest achievement was guiding the Buccaneers to a historic treble, an accomplishment that strengthened his reputation as one of the most impressive coaching figures in South African football.

Winning multiple trophies in a single season is never an easy task, especially in a competitive environment where clubs such as Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs are constantly under pressure to deliver results.

Ouaddou's achievements therefore made him a strong candidate for continental recognition, according to many Pirates supporters.

However, CAF's final shortlist featured several coaches who enjoyed impressive campaigns with their respective clubs and national teams.

Among the recognised names is Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso, whose achievements in continental football strengthened his chances of receiving recognition.

Other nominees include coaches who have made significant contributions to African football through their performances in domestic competitions and international tournaments.

While the competition for the award is undoubtedly strong, Ouaddou's absence has created considerable discussion about the selection process and the achievements required to qualify for such recognition.

It is important to note that CAF has not publicly explained why the Pirates coach was excluded from the final shortlist.

Nevertheless, his omission will not erase what he accomplished with the Buccaneers last season.

For Orlando Pirates supporters, the debate is straightforward: if winning a historic treble is not enough to earn a continental coaching nomination, what more could Ouaddou have done?

His attention will now turn towards maintaining Pirates' success and delivering more memorable moments for the club.

Source https://x.com/MickyJnr__/status/2117914794594353639