The Betway Premiership title race is far from over, and Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou wants the world to know it. Following a clinical 2-0 victory over Stellenbosch FC at Athlone Stadium, the Buccaneers have narrowed the gap at the top to just two points, breathing down the necks of Mamelodi Sundowns.
Ouaddou was full of praise for his squad’s grit and tactical discipline, describing his players as “warriors” who are prepared to fight until the final whistle of the season.
Efficiency and Tactical Grit
Pirates silenced the Cape Town crowd early with first-half strikes from Evidence Makgopa and Patrick Maswanganyi. However, Ouaddou noted that the victory was built on physical dominance and the ability to win “duels” against a stubborn Stellenbosch side.
“We knew that here we need to answer to these physical duels,” Ouaddou remarked. “Today, we saw real warriors and players that clearly give an answer to say that we are still here and we’re going to fight until the last second.”
While acknowledging that the second half required heavy tactical adjustments to withstand the hosts’ pressure, the coach expressed immense pride in the squad’s bravery during the high-stakes encounter.
The Title Race Permutations
With the gap now slashed to two points, the pressure shifts to Loftus Versfeld tonight. Orlando Pirates have done their part; now, they wait to see if their rivals can stumble.
The Standings Gap:
- Mamelodi Sundowns: 64 Points (3 games left)
- Orlando Pirates: 62 Points (3 games left)
Road to the Trophy: Remaining Fixtures
The finish line is in sight, but the path is grueling for both title contenders:
| Date | Mamelodi Sundowns | Orlando Pirates |
| Wed, 6 May | vs. Kaizer Chiefs (H) | — |
| Sat, 9 May | vs. Siwelele FC (H) | vs. Magesi FC (A) |
| Tue, 12 May | vs. TS Galaxy (A) | — |
| Sat, 16 May | — | vs. Durban City FC (H) |
| Sat, 23 May | — | vs. Orbit College (A) |
