Ouaddou Explains His Stance on Showboating After Pirates’ 4-0 Victory

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has clarified his position on showboating after allowing young talents Mpho Padime and Simphiwe Masilela to showcase their skills during the Buccaneers’ emphatic 4-0 victory over African Stars in the CAF Champions League.

The Soweto giants secured a 5-0 aggregate victory following their 1-0 win in the first leg, booking their place in the group stages of the continental competition.

Ouaddou previously criticised players for prioritising individual tricks over scoring more goals, but his latest comments suggest that he is willing to allow creative expression when it does not compromise the team's objectives.

Speaking after Friday night's encounter at the Orlando Amstel Arena, the Moroccan tactician explained why he had no problem with Padime and Masilela displaying their technical abilities during the closing stages. With Pirates comfortably ahead and having maintained a clean sheet, he felt the players had earned some freedom to enjoy themselves.

However, the coach maintained that his expectations remain unchanged. He wants his players to continue pursuing goals and maintaining their intensity, regardless of the scoreline.

In September, Ouaddou expressed frustration after Pirates' CAF Champions League encounter against La Cure Waves, arguing that unnecessary tricks and reduced intensity could undermine the team's ambitions.

His latest remarks demonstrate that his concern is not with showboating itself, but with the timing and decision-making behind it.

For emerging players such as Padime and Masilela, the challenge will be to combine their flair with tactical discipline and consistent contributions to the team's success.

The victory also represents an important milestone for Pirates as they return to the CAF Champions League group stages after missing out on the previous campaign.

With tougher continental challenges ahead, Ouaddou will expect his players to maintain the same balance between creativity and discipline. His message is clear: individual brilliance is welcome, provided collective success remains the priority.

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