Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has addressed the attention surrounding Deon Hotto’s absence from the Buccaneers’ CAF Champions League clash against his former club, African Stars, following the South African side’s 1-0 victory in the first leg of their second preliminary-round tie.

The encounter took place at the Botswana National Stadium in Gaborone on Saturday, October 17, 2026, with Pirates securing a valuable away win ahead of the return fixture.

Hotto’s absence attracted attention because of his previous association with the Namibian club. The experienced winger represented African Stars before moving to South Africa in 2014, where he subsequently built a reputation in domestic football.

However, the exact reason for his omission from the matchday squad has not been independently confirmed. There is no verified information indicating whether the decision was influenced by injury, rotation or tactical considerations.

Before the match, Ouaddou spoke highly of the 35-year-old winger, describing him as an “African legend”. The Pirates coach praised Hotto’s professionalism, experience and longevity, highlighting the value of his presence within the squad.

Hotto joined Orlando Pirates in 2020 and has since played an important role across domestic and continental competitions.

Despite his absence, the Buccaneers managed to secure the desired result, with Tshepang Moremi scoring the decisive goal in the 75th minute to give his side a narrow advantage.

Pirates will now prepare for the second leg, scheduled for Friday, October 23, at Orlando Amstel Arena. They will aim to build on their first-leg success and secure qualification for the next stage.

African Stars, meanwhile, will be determined to overturn the deficit and keep their continental campaign alive.

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