Sibisi Reveals Why Orlando Pirates Players Are Embracing Ouaddou’s High Demands

Orlando Pirates captain Nkosinathi Sibisi has thrown his support behind head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou's demanding approach, insisting that the coach's expectations are aimed at taking the Buccaneers to a higher level.

Ouaddou has made it clear that he wants his players to be more ruthless in front of goal, challenging them to take advantage of every scoring opportunity rather than becoming comfortable after finding the back of the net a few times.

His approach was particularly evident following Pirates' 3-0 victory over Milford FC in the Carling Knockout Cup. Despite securing qualification for the quarter-finals, the coach was unhappy with aspects of his team's performance, especially their inability to convert more of the 24 chances they created.

For Ouaddou, a club with the ambitions of Orlando Pirates should always aim for more, regardless of the scoreline or the opposition.

Sibisi, however, has explained that the players understand the coach's mentality and are taking his instructions positively.

Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs, the Pirates captain revealed that the squad has embraced the challenge of improving their attacking output.

"The coach has set a high standard within the club. He wants us to score eight if we can and not settle for less. We always have to try and push to get as many goals as we can because, at the end of the day, maybe the league might be won on goal difference. Who knows?" Sibisi explained.

The defender believes that the coach's demands could eventually make a significant difference in the club's pursuit of silverware. In a competitive league campaign, every goal could become important when teams are separated by narrow margins.

He further indicated that the players are responding well to the expectations and remain committed to improving their performances.

"For us as players, we take the coach's mandate in a positive way, and the boys are really reacting to what the coach has been saying. We will try and improve in front of goal, but so far, so good," he added.

Sibisi's comments also highlight the growing understanding between the coaching staff and the players. Rather than viewing criticism as negativity, the Pirates captain believes the squad must use it as motivation to become better.

With the Soweto Derby approaching, the Buccaneers will have another opportunity to demonstrate the progress they have made under Ouaddou.

The clash against Kaizer Chiefs carries enormous significance for both clubs, with supporters expecting their teams to deliver a strong performance.

For Pirates, the objective will be to maintain their momentum while demonstrating the attacking efficiency their coach has been demanding.

Ouaddou's message is straightforward: winning is important, but a club with Pirates' ambitions must never stop striving for improvement. Sibisi's backing suggests that the players are fully aware of the standards expected of them.

Source https://x.com/Soccer_Laduma/status/2116054263977644228?a=mvn4QlIXhn6ZKPfcEm4&s=19