Former Orlando Pirates star Gabadinho Mhango has opened up about the “secret sauce” behind Abdeslam Ouaddou’s early success at the Soweto giants. Currently leading the line for Richards Bay FC, the 33-year-old Malawian striker previously worked under Ouaddou at Marumo Gallants and saw the coach’s potential long before he arrived at Mayfair.
Passion Meets Performance
According to Mhango, Ouaddou’s success isn’t just about tactics; it’s about a deep-rooted love for the sport.
- Player Centric Understanding: Having played at the highest levels himself, Ouaddou connects with players on a personal level.
- Infectious Energy: Mhango recalls training sessions at Gallants where the coach’s enthusiasm was palpable. “You could see it from his face; he loves the game,” Mhango noted.
- Immediate Impact: That passion has translated into silverware, with Pirates already clinching two trophies in the first half of the 2025/26 season.
The Title Race: Pirates vs. Sundowns
The Buccaneers currently sit at the summit of the Betway Premiership, holding a crucial game in hand over perennial rivals Mamelodi Sundowns. Mhango believes the momentum shifted because of the intensity Ouaddou demands.
As far as the league title race goes, I think it’s gonna go to whoever puts more effort. That’s the goal at Orlando Pirates this season to win the league.”
With the MTN8 trophy already in the cabinet and a lead in the standings, the “Ouaddou Revolution” seems to be in full swing, turning skeptics into believers.
