Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou is strategically managing his
squad through a congested fixture list, emphasizing a careful rotation
policy to balance performance with player fitness.
The Buccaneers enter their upcoming matches with no new injuries reported
after their recent Carling Knockout quarter-final victory over Magesi.
However, the team continues to navigate several absences. Midfielder Selaelo
Rasebotja and defender Thabiso Sesane are still in the final stages of their
recovery, while long-term absentees like Olisa Ndah and Makhehleni Makhaula
remain unavailable. Tapelo Xoki is also working his way back from a car
accident earlier in the season.
The squad has seen recent boosts, such as Deano van Rooyen’s return to the
bench, but also managed without rising star Relebohile Mofokeng. The limited
minutes for attacker Tshegofatso Mabasa and midfielder Thalente Mbatha are
understood to be tactical, with no injuries confirmed.
Ouaddou clarified that his rotation is both precautionary and tactical,
especially for those returning from layoffs. “For a player coming from
injury, it’s important to give him time to be fully fit,” the coach stated.
“With the intensity we demand, I cannot risk bringing a player back too
quickly and having him get injured again.”
He expressed strong confidence in his squad’s depth, believing regular
rotation is essential for maintaining energy and sharpness throughout the
season. “The players I have are enough to make the turnover. It’s my
philosophy—I cannot have 30 players and only use 18 all year. That doesn’t
make sense and leads to injuries and a loss of sharpness,” Ouaddou
explained.
The Moroccan tactician also highlighted the successful integration of
younger players, praising Cemran Dansin for his rare start in midfield and
Nkosikhona Ndaba for his impressive performance at left-back. “We have to
give these talented young players a chance to express themselves,” he said,
also noting Yanela Mbuthuma’s contribution. “It’s very important to keep
this dynamic and give our youth opportunities.”
As Pirates advance in multiple competitions, including a Carling Knockout
semi-final against Richards Bay, Ouaddou’s calculated approach to recovery,
rotation, and youth development could be the key to navigating the season’s
most demanding period.
