Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has openly admitted that some of his tactical decisions put his team under pressure during Saturday's highly anticipated Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs.

The encounter, which attracted enormous attention from South African football supporters, saw the Buccaneers experience a challenging first half as Chiefs capitalised on opportunities to put their opponents under pressure.

Speaking after the match, Ouaddou acknowledged that his attempt to surprise Kaizer Chiefs with certain tactical adjustments did not produce the desired outcome. The Pirates coach took responsibility for his decisions, admitting that his approach could have cost his team the game.

"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.

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

"But thanks God we came at the half-time with 1-1. It was time make some tactical adjustment, we changed some players as well."

His comments reflected an unusually candid assessment of his own tactical approach, particularly given the importance of the Soweto Derby, where mistakes can have significant consequences.

The 1-1 scoreline at half-time provided Pirates with an opportunity to reassess their strategy and make the necessary changes before returning for the second half.

Ouaddou's willingness to acknowledge his tactical shortcomings also highlighted the importance of making adjustments during high-pressure encounters.

For Pirates supporters, the coach's admission will undoubtedly generate further discussion about his tactical decisions and the team's overall performance against their biggest rivals.

The Soweto Derby remains one of South African football's most fiercely contested fixtures, with both Pirates and Chiefs carrying enormous expectations whenever they meet.

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