Ouaddou accepts favourites tag ahead of derby

October 29, 2026 1

Orlando Pirates head coach, Abdeslam Ouaddou, has accepted the favourites tag for the upcoming Soweto Derby, but insists it doesn’t mean that the Buccaneers will win.

Pirates head into Saturday’s clash on the back of seven wins in their last eight games, with their only defeat in the 2026/27 season coming against Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 final.

As a result, many see the Sea Robbers as favourites, a tag Ouaddou is willing to embrace, while stressing that his side still need to deliver on the pitch.

“We didn’t lose last season. But what we achieved last season is in the past,” Ouaddou said.

“Well done to the boys, the club and the people who achieved all these things last season. But we have to move on. It’s another season, other targets, and we have to plan for that,” he added.

“We need to have this positive arrogance. We have to accept this position of favourites because we were champions and we have to accept it. But at the same time we play against new management…”

When asked directly whether he really openly accepting the favourites tag, Ouaddou did not shy away.

“Yes, we have to accept it,” he continued.

Kick-off will be at 15h30 on Saturday at the FNB Stadium.

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— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) October 29, 2026