Abdeslam Ouaddou expects 2026 Fifa World Cup to drive Orlando Pirates' title charge
FOOTBALL
Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou believes competition for places in Hugo Broos’ World Cup squad will help keep his players motivated as the Buccaneers chase success this season. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou believes the upcoming FIFA World Cup will play a key role in driving standards within his squad, with fierce competition for places in Hugo Broos’ final selection expected to keep his players motivated and hungry for success.
The Buccaneers were strongly represented at the recently concluded Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), contributing nine players to the South African squad—a reflection of their impressive form in the opening phase of the season.
Ouaddou has overseen intense competition for places at Pirates this term, with the squad packed with some of the country’s top talent. That internal rivalry has pushed performances to a new level, placing the Sea Robbers on course for what could become one of the most memorable campaigns in the club’s history.
The former Morocco international has also welcomed the chance for his players to compete for places in Broos’ squad, with the added benefit of gaining World Cup experience expected to build on the growth they achieved at AFCON.
“A lot of people were disappointed, but I was there for the match against Zimbabwe,” Ouaddou commented. “South Africa did their best and it gave the coach the opportunity to see his team as he is preparing for the World Cup.
“It’s a huge moment for our players. They have a huge challenge to perform after coming back from AFCON.
"They have three or four months to perform because there is a huge opportunity for the national team coach to select the best players to represent South Africa at the World Cup. It’s good for Pirates because our players will be motivated to showcase themselves and to perform in order to be selected by coach Broos.”
Pirates remain in the hunt for two additional trophies this season and will shift focus to the Nedbank Cup last 32 this weekend, where they face ABC Motsepe Foundation side Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila on Saturday afternoon (kick-off at 3pm).
The cup fixture follows a strong midweek showing that saw the Buccaneers move to the top of the Betway Premiership standings after their 2-0 win over AmaZulu, opening a three-point gap as their title race with second-placed Mamelodi Sundowns continues to gather momentum.