Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has expressed confidence in Kaizer Chiefs’ ability to challenge for the Betway Premiership title, despite the club’s recent difficulties.

The Moroccan-French coach made the comments following Pirates’ 2-1 victory over Amakhosi in the Soweto Derby at FNB Stadium on Saturday, October 31, 2026.

Although celebrating an important win for the Buccaneers, Ouaddou praised Chiefs’ coaching staff, particularly head coach Fernando Da Cruz, for their efforts in developing the team’s playing philosophy.

Ouaddou urged supporters to remain patient and allow the technical team sufficient time to implement its ideas.

“Seeing the game from outside, this technical team of Kaizer Chiefs are doing a great job, we must let them work, implement their game model,” he said.

He also highlighted the quality of Chiefs’ squad, describing the team as having promising young players.

The Pirates mentor further insisted that Amakhosi should not be excluded from the title conversation, pointing to the club’s stature and strong fan base.

His remarks come as Da Cruz faces growing expectations to deliver consistent results at Naturena.

During the derby, Yanela Mbuthuma opened the scoring for Pirates before Pule Mmodi equalised for Chiefs. Tshepang Moremi subsequently scored the decisive goal in the 55th minute to secure victory for the Buccaneers.

Ouaddou acknowledged that both sides had their opportunities, while encouraging Chiefs to build on their promising performances.

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