Orlando Pirates’ Abdeslam Ouaddou assures no concerns over Patrick Maswanganyi
Mamelodi Sundowns vs Orlando Pirates MTN8 2nd leg - Pretoria - 23 August 2025 - Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou gestures during the MTN8 2nd leg against Mamelodi Sundowns at Lucas Moripe stadium. Picture: Itumeleng English/ Independent Newspapers
Image: Itumeleng English/ Independent Newspapers
Although Orlando Pirates striker Patrick Maswanganyi was unceremoniously subbed in the first half of their MTN8 semi-final against Mamelodi Sundowns over the weekend, he is still one of the top players at the club according to coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.
With host Sundowns leading 1-0 and 2-1 on aggregate over the two-legged clash, Maswanganyi was whipped off six minutes before half-time on Saturday.
While the move raised eyebrows, it paid off with Bandile Shandu coming on and allowing Pirates to change their attacking approach.
Ouaddou revealed his thinking behind the switch.
Ouaddou Praises Patrick as a Top Player
“Patrick is one of our best players,” Ouaddou said.
“He’s a top player, he’s been doing well for such a few years for the club, and I believe in him. Sometimes in football, especially me, because I’ve been in professional football for 17 years.
“I can tell you how many times the coach takes me out because I was having a bad day.”
Ouaddou Emphasises Maswanganyi’s Importance to Pirates’ Attack Despite Saturday’s Performance
Ouaddou went on to drive home the point that Maswanganyi would remain a vital cog in the Pirates attack.
“It doesn’t mean that I was a bad player. It’s just that today (Saturday) may not have been his day, but I still believe in him.
“He’s very important for our club, and we don’t know maybe he will be a regular in the final. It’s just that today was not his day, and it was a tactical choice.”
Pirates are next in action in the Betway Premiership when they host Orbit College at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday evening. Kick-off is at 7.30pm.