Why Ouaddou Benched In-Form Sigomoshe Despite Impressive Pirates Performances

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has explained why he decided to leave in-form defender Bulelani Sigomoshe out of the starting line-up for the highly anticipated Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs.

The decision raised eyebrows among supporters, particularly because the young defender had impressed in his previous appearances since joining the Buccaneers from Milford FC. However, Ouaddou has revealed that his selection was influenced by the magnitude of the occasion and his desire to protect the youngster from unnecessary pressure.

Pirates faced their bitter rivals at FNB Stadium on Saturday, 31 October, in a high-stakes Betway Premiership encounter attended by a massive crowd. With the pressure surrounding South Africa's biggest football rivalry, the Moroccan tactician opted for experience over form in his defensive selection.

Ouaddou selected Deon Hotto to operate at right-back, believing the experienced Namibian international could help contain the opposition while shielding Sigomoshe from the demands of such a high-profile fixture.

Explaining his decision after the match, the Pirates coach acknowledged that Sigomoshe had done well in previous games but felt the derby presented a different challenge.

"A player who did well in previous games, Sigomoshe, until the last moment, I decided to put the experienced Hotto there," Ouaddou explained.

He added that the opposition's threat on that side influenced his thinking, as he believed Hotto's experience could help Pirates manage the situation defensively.

The coach also praised Sigomoshe for adapting quickly after arriving from Milford, acknowledging the difficulty of establishing oneself at a major club like Orlando Pirates.

However, Ouaddou admitted that his tactical gamble did not produce the desired results, particularly during the opening half.

By deploying Hotto on the right instead of his more familiar left-back position, Pirates struggled to generate the attacking width and forward runs normally provided by a natural right-back.

The coach subsequently made changes at half-time, moving Hotto back to the left and introducing Gamphani Lungu to strengthen the right side.

Ouaddou accepted responsibility for the decision, insisting that the players should not be blamed for a tactical choice made by the technical team.

The adjustment helped Pirates improve after the break, with the Buccaneers eventually securing a 2-1 victory over Kaizer Chiefs.

Goals from Yanela Mbuthuma and Tshepang Moremi secured the crucial derby victory, while Pule Mmodi scored for Amakhosi.

Despite the positive result, Ouaddou admitted that he needed to review his decisions with his technical staff.

His explanation suggests that Sigomoshe's omission was not necessarily a reflection of poor performances but rather a calculated attempt to manage the pressure surrounding the derby.

For Pirates supporters, the development will be encouraging, as the coach has publicly recognised the defender's progress. With the season continuing, Sigomoshe could remain an important option as the Buccaneers pursue their ambitions in domestic football.

Source https://x.com/Soccer_Laduma/status/2117161089066557464?a=BCM3AzbrFTYOugux_p0&s=19