Ouaddou: The PSL Is Growing in Competitiveness
Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou emphasizes that the Betway Premiership is becoming increasingly competitive, especially after his team’s loss to Sekhukhune United during their opening match on Saturday.
The defending champions, Mamelodi Sundowns, also encountered difficulties, ending with a 1-1 draw against Chippa United earlier that day.
Ouaddou believes these results demonstrate how fierce the competition in the league has become.
“These results reflect the ongoing improvement and increasing challenge of the PSL,” Ouaddou commented.
“Every club is striving for better organization. The outcomes indicate that all teams are eager to compete, and the concept of underdogs has diminished within this league.”
Ouaddou’s comments highlight a significant shift in the league’s dynamics, where every team is eager to assert itself.
Despite the loss, Ouaddou praised his team’s performance, noting that they played well but failed to capitalize on their chances.
“In football, if you’re not effective in front of goal, a single opportunity for your opponent can lead to a goal,” he remarked.
“This doesn’t mean the players didn’t perform well. If you rewatch the match, you’ll see several positives.”
“The crucial lesson here is that scoring is vital for securing a successful outcome.”
The loss to Sekhukhune was surprising, particularly given the Pirates’ strong second-place finish last season. This isn’t the first time the Buccaneers have lost their opening match; they experienced a similar fate in the 2023/24 season yet managed to finish strongly.
Last season, Sundowns dominated the league with a comfortable lead over others. However, the current season has started differently, with neither team claiming victory in their first match.
The Buccaneers are set to travel to Free State for a matchup against Marumo Gallants, Ouaddou’s former team, in their next league fixture on Tuesday.
Following that, they will face Sundowns in the first leg of the MTN8. Meanwhile, Sekhukhune will look to extend their winning streak as they host TS Galaxy at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium on Wednesday.
