Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has hailed the “instant integration” of new signings Andre de Jong and Daniel Msendami following their first competitive minutes for the Sea Robbers this past weekend.
The two attackers, signed during a busy January window to bolster the Bucs’ championship charge, were introduced as second-half substitutes in front of a sold-out home crowd. Their arrival comes at a crucial time, as Pirates currently sit level on points with Mamelodi Sundowns at the top of the Betway Premiership log.
The Coach’s Assessment
Addressing the media, Ouaddou explained that the timing of their debut was deliberate:
“It was part of the plan to give them game-time. It was the right moment to show them to the fans and give them the opportunity to start in our stadium. They did well. It’s not easy to join a new team and integrate quickly, but the time I gave them, they used it well. It gives me a lot of hope for the future.”
Tactical Breakdown
- Andre de Jong (from Stellenbosch FC): Ouaddou highlighted the New Zealander’s “intelligence between the lines,” noting his ability to progress the ball and find spaces in crowded defenses.
- Daniel Msendami (from Marumo Gallants): The Zimbabwean international was praised for his “raw speed and 1v1 capacity.” Ouaddou noted that Msendami has significantly improved his defensive work rate, making him a “complete modern winger” for the Pirates system.
While fellow January recruit Mpho Chabatsane remained an unused substitute, the successful cameos from De Jong and Msendami suggest they will play a major role in tonight’s clash against AmaZulu FC.
