Orlando Pirates defender and senior player Nkosinathi Sibisi has highlighted the high standards set by head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, saying new arrivals at the club must quickly adapt to his demanding football philosophy.

Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs, Sibisi described the Moroccan tactician as a straightforward coach who constantly pushes his players to achieve excellence rather than settling for satisfactory performances.

According to Sibisi, understanding the coach's expectations and blending into the team's playing philosophy are essential for every new player joining the Buccaneers.

The Pirates captain explained that Ouaddou is never afraid to tell his players exactly what he expects, even when the team has secured convincing victories.

“He doesn't demand just good, he demands excellence,” Sibisi explained.

He further revealed that the coach sometimes challenges the team to score even more goals after impressive victories, believing they could have performed better.

“Whenever we win three-nil, four-nil, when we should have won maybe by eight or ten, he will say it straight. He's a straight talker,” Sibisi added.

Sibisi said the players have embraced the coach's direct approach, viewing his criticism as motivation to improve rather than something to take personally.

The defender believes this mentality is important as Pirates continue working towards maintaining high performance levels and building consistency.

His comments come at a crucial time for the Buccaneers, who are preparing for another massive Soweto Derby against their fierce rivals Kaizer Chiefs.

With expectations high, Pirates will be looking to demonstrate the standards demanded by their coach when the two Soweto giants meet.

Source ; https://x.com/MDNnewss/status/2116069514534092955/photo/1?a=qyg0y58_spckbFQdn5Y&s=19