OUADDOU BACKS KAIZER CHIEFS TO REMAIN IN BETWAY PREMIERSHIP TITLE RACE AFTER SOWETO DERBY VICTORY

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA — 1 NOVEMBER 2026

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has expressed confidence in Kaizer Chiefs' ability to compete for the Betway Premiership title despite his side's 2-1 victory over Amakhosi in Saturday's Soweto Derby at FNB Stadium.

Although the Buccaneers emerged victorious against their traditional rivals, Ouaddou believes Chiefs should not be written off in the championship race, insisting that the club has the quality and potential to challenge for the league crown.

Pirates secured an important victory in front of a packed FNB Stadium, with Yanela Mbuthuma opening the scoring in the 24th minute. Kaizer Chiefs responded through Pule Mmodi, who restored parity before Tshepang Moremi netted the winning goal in the 55th minute to secure maximum points for the Buccaneers.

Despite celebrating a crucial derby triumph, Ouaddou was full of praise for the work being done by Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz and his technical team.

The Moroccan tactician believes the Amakhosi coaching staff deserve sufficient time to establish their playing philosophy and build a competitive team.

Speaking after the match, Ouaddou acknowledged the progress being made at Naturena, highlighting the efforts of Da Cruz and his technical team.

He explained that Chiefs have a promising group of players, including several talented youngsters who could play important roles in the club's future success.

According to the Pirates coach, Amakhosi are moving in the right direction and should remain part of the conversation when discussing potential title contenders.

Ouaddou also pointed out that Kaizer Chiefs are a massive football institution with a passionate supporter base, making it important not to underestimate their ability to compete at the highest level.

His remarks come as both Soweto giants occupy different positions on the Betway Premiership standings.

Orlando Pirates climbed to second place with 25 points following their derby victory, leaving them just one point behind league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, who had played an additional match.

Kaizer Chiefs, on the other hand, remained in fifth position with 14 points from nine matches, creating an 11-point gap between themselves and their Soweto rivals.

Meanwhile, Ouaddou also praised the atmosphere surrounding Saturday's encounter, comparing the intensity of the Soweto Derby to a CAF Champions League fixture.

He commended the supporters and organisers for contributing to an exciting football occasion that showcased the passion and competitiveness of South African football.

For Kaizer Chiefs, the Pirates coach's comments could serve as encouragement as Fernando Da Cruz continues working to establish his project at Naturena.

Despite suffering a disappointing defeat against their biggest rivals, Amakhosi still have an opportunity to improve their position as the season progresses.

With several league matches yet to be played, Ouaddou believes the championship battle remains open and has made it clear that Kaizer Chiefs should not be underestimated in their pursuit of the Betway Premiership title.

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