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Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has praised African Stars, their coach and the Namibian club’s board following the Buccaneers’ emphatic victory in the CAF Champions League, while insisting that his team were simply too strong for their opponents on the night.
The Soweto giants secured a convincing 4-0 victory over African Stars at Orlando Amstel Arena on Friday, 23 October 2026, completing a 5-0 aggregate triumph to book their place in the CAF Champions League group stage.
Pirates entered the second-leg encounter with a narrow 1-0 advantage from the first leg played in Botswana. However, the Buccaneers delivered an impressive performance in front of their supporters, scoring four unanswered goals to eliminate their opponents and advance to the next stage of the continental competition.
Speaking after the match, Ouaddou acknowledged the efforts made by African Stars throughout the two-legged tie, despite the disappointing result for the Namibian side.
“Well done to African Stars, the coach, the board of the Namibian club. They gave their best but we were too strong for them today,” Ouaddou said.
The Moroccan tactician’s remarks demonstrated his respect for the opposition while expressing satisfaction with his players’ performance. Pirates showed their attacking quality and determination, ensuring there was little doubt about which team deserved to progress.
The qualification represents an important achievement for the Buccaneers, who were eager to avoid another early elimination after their disappointment at the same stage last season. Reaching the group stage gives Ouaddou and his squad an opportunity to compete against stronger African opposition and pursue their ambitions of continental success.
However, the challenges ahead are expected to be considerably tougher, with Pirates needing consistency, discipline and clinical finishing to compete with Africa’s leading clubs.
Following their commanding display against African Stars, the Buccaneers will hope to carry their confidence and momentum into the group stage as they seek to make a lasting impression in this season’s CAF Champions League campaign.
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