Ouaddou unfazed by AFCON break

Orlando Pirates coach, Abdeslam Ouaddou, says the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) breaks, comes at the right time for his players, despite the excellent run of form.

The Buccaneers recently defeated Marumo Gallants 1-0 after extra time in the Carling Knockout Cup final in Polokwane, to securing their second trophy of the season.

The Moroccan remains confident that the break — which runs from December 21 to January 18, with Bafana Bafana playing their opening Group B campaign against Angola on December 22 — will not disrupt the Pirates’ consistency and form.

Pirates have nine players heading to the tournament in Morocco, the most of any club, leaving Ouaddou to manage the squad members who remain behind.

“The break comes at the right time because we have played many games in the Champions League qualifiers and domestic league,” he said. “I cannot tell you how many matches we have played so far but we played more than Marumo Gallants and most of the other teams in the league.”

The former Moroccan international added that he will be closely monitoring his players during AFCON.

“This is the moment for Bafana Bafana and the nation needs fit players. I want our players to go there and give everything because going to the national team is not a holiday.

“With our guys who are going to the national team, I am going to watch their games and evaluate their performances during the tournament. I told them to go there and give 100% for their country,” he added.

Written by: Ntsako Mukhari