Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has openly admitted that his tactical decisions nearly cost the Buccaneers their Soweto Derby victory over Kaizer Chiefs, despite his side eventually securing a memorable 2-1 win at FNB Stadium on Saturday.

The Moroccan tactician did not hide behind the result after the final whistle, instead accepting responsibility for Pirates’ difficult first-half performance. His attempt to surprise their biggest rivals with a different tactical approach failed to deliver the desired outcome, leaving the Buccaneers vulnerable to Chiefs’ attacking pressure.

Pirates initially appeared to be on course for a positive afternoon when Yanela Mbuthuma broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute. However, their advantage lasted only six minutes, with Pule Mmodi finding the equaliser for Amakhosi.

The goal lifted Chiefs, who grew in confidence and created further opportunities before the interval. Pirates struggled to impose themselves, while their opponents looked capable of taking control of the contest.

Speaking after the match, Ouaddou admitted that his tactical choices had placed his own team in difficulty.

“I tried to surprise the opponent, making some tactical choice that were not spot on. I think coach Ouaddou put in trouble his team in the first half,” he acknowledged.

The Pirates coach went further, accepting that his decisions could have cost the team the derby.

“I could have cost the game but sometimes you have to be honest to see it,” he added.

His comments reflected a willingness to take responsibility rather than shift the blame onto his players. It was also an indication of how seriously he assessed the first-half problems, despite the importance of eventually collecting all three points.

The 1-1 scoreline at the break gave the Buccaneers an opportunity to regroup. Ouaddou used the interval to make tactical adjustments and changes to his personnel, hoping to restore balance and improve his side’s performance.

Those changes helped Pirates return with greater purpose, and the decisive moment arrived in the 55th minute when Tshepang Moremi scored to put the hosts back in front.

Chiefs were unable to find another equaliser, allowing Pirates to protect their advantage and claim the bragging rights in one of South African football’s biggest fixtures.

The victory was significant for the Buccaneers’ league ambitions, but Ouaddou’s admission has added another talking point to the derby aftermath. His honesty may reassure supporters that he recognises the areas requiring improvement, while also highlighting the fine margins involved in high-pressure matches.

For Pirates, the result brings valuable momentum. However, the coach will know that surviving a difficult first half is not a sustainable approach, particularly against opponents capable of punishing tactical mistakes.

Source:

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