Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has applauded African Stars, their coach and the Namibian club's board following the Buccaneers' impressive victory in the CAF Champions League, acknowledging their efforts while making it clear that his team were superior on the night.

The Soweto giants produced a commanding display to defeat African Stars 4-0 in the second leg at Orlando Amstel Arena on Friday night, 23 October 2026. The victory secured a convincing 5-0 aggregate triumph, sending Pirates through to the CAF Champions League group stage.

The result represents an important achievement for the Buccaneers, who were determined to avoid another early exit after their disappointment at the same stage of the competition last season.

Speaking after the match, Ouaddou took the opportunity to recognise the efforts of their Namibian opponents, praising the club's leadership and technical team despite the heavy defeat.

“Well done to African Stars, the coach, the board of the Namibian club. They gave their best but we were too strong for them today,” Ouaddou said.

The Moroccan coach's comments reflected his satisfaction with Pirates' performance while acknowledging that African Stars had given their best during the two-legged encounter.

Pirates went into Friday's return fixture holding a 1-0 advantage from the first leg played in Botswana. Although they had a slim lead to protect, the Buccaneers knew that a strong home performance would be necessary to guarantee their progression.

They responded emphatically, scoring four unanswered goals to complete a dominant victory and secure their place in the next round of Africa's premier club competition.

For the Sea Robbers, reaching the group stage is a significant step towards achieving their ambitions of competing for continental honours and establishing themselves among Africa's top clubs.

The qualification also gives Ouaddou and his players an opportunity to put last season's disappointment behind them and make a stronger impression in this year's campaign.

However, the challenges are expected to become more demanding in the group stage, where Pirates will face tougher opposition as they pursue their continental objectives.

Ouaddou will now be looking for his players to maintain the confidence and momentum gained from their convincing victory over African Stars.

With their place in the group stage secured, the Buccaneers have taken an important step forward. Their next challenge will be to turn this impressive qualification performance into a sustained push for success in the CAF Champions League.

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