After Orlando Pirates faced a disappointing 0-0 draw against Durban City at Orlando Stadium on Saturday, coach Abdeslam Ouaddou commented on the ensuing touchline altercation that took place.
Following the match, Ouaddou appeared visibly frustrated, particularly as tensions escalated between the two coaching teams after a highly physical game.
His discontent stemmed from worries regarding player safety, as he observed what he deemed to be perilous tackles throughout the match.
“There is a difference between playing strong with physicality on the ball and trying to break players,” said Ouaddou.
“This is not my mentality and never will be mine, first as an educator before being a coach.”
The former international player cited the recent injuries to his squad, notably the one experienced by Tsepang Moremi during the Pirates’ matchup with Kaizer Chiefs that kept him sidelined for two matches.
He also highlighted an incident involving his goalkeeper, who was subjected to a reckless challenge after the ball was already away from play.
“We need to protect the players,” he emphasized. “If someone cannot protect them in the middle of the pitch, then I have to protect them.”
Ouaddou further underscored the importance of demonstrating good behavior for the younger fans present at the game.
“We don’t have to forget that there are children in the stands,” he said. “We have to be an example. Football has to be a bridge, a model for the next generation.”
Despite the heated exchanges, Ouaddou noted that he was able to resolve the situation with the coach from Durban City, and they spoke amicably after the game.
“We had a chat after the game, and everything is okay,” he explained. “He understood me and apologised. I congratulated him on the good game they played.”
However, Ouaddou acknowledged that the Pirates need to strengthen their mental resilience when dealing with opponents who aim to disrupt their style with physical play.
“We need to be more clever against these types of teams who come and kick you,” he concluded.
