Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou was visibly frustrated on the touchline despite watching his team secure a narrow 1-0 victory over Sekhukhune United to book their place in the Carling Knockout Cup semi-finals on Saturday afternoon.

The defending champions entered the quarter-final encounter at the Orlando Amstel Arena determined to keep their title defence alive. However, their performance fell short of the standards expected, leaving Ouaddou visibly unhappy with several aspects of his team's display.

Pirates struggled to establish complete control against a determined Sekhukhune United side that remained organised and made life difficult for the home team throughout the contest.

Despite creating opportunities, the Buccaneers found it difficult to break down their opponents' defensive structure. Their attacking movements lacked the sharpness needed to put the visitors under sustained pressure.

The breakthrough eventually arrived through teenage prospect Mpho Padime, who scored the only goal of the encounter to send Pirates into the last four.

His decisive contribution proved particularly important for the Soweto giants, who were unable to find another goal despite their efforts to increase their advantage.

However, the result did little to hide Ouaddou's disappointment. The Moroccan tactician was seen expressing his frustration from the technical area, making it clear that progressing to the semi-finals was not enough to satisfy him.

Speaking after the match, Ouaddou acknowledged the importance of reaching the next stage but insisted that his team needed to produce a better performance.

"Yes, I'm happy to go to the semi-final, but not like that!"

His reaction reflected his desire to maintain higher standards as Pirates continue competing for silverware this season.

For Sekhukhune, the defeat ended their Carling Knockout campaign, while Pirates remain on course to defend their title.

The Buccaneers will now turn their attention to the semi-finals, with Ouaddou expected to demand significant improvements from his players.

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