Abdeslam Ouaddou backs Msendami to succeed after first Pirates goal

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has tipped Daniel Msendami for success at Mayfair after the attacker opened his Bucs account against Chippa United on Sunday.

The 25-year-old winger entered the fray in the 78th minute and rounded up the scoring in a 3-0 win over the Chilli Boys, in what was his first appearance of the 2026/27 campaign.

He joined the Buccaneers from Marumo Gallants in January and struggled to establish himself in the starting XI last season as he was limited to eight appearances across all competitions.

Notably, Msendami was embraced by his teammates and the technical team upon scoring his maiden goal for the club, with the Pirates boss stating the emotional moment signifies the player's importance in the squad.

“I think the behavior of the whole team, of the technical staff, to go towards him shows how this boy is appreciated in the dressing room, how this boy has a big heart for the team,” said Ouaddou.

Having previously worked with the Zimbabwe international at Gallants, Ouaddou believes the forward will make a lasting impact at Pirates, owing to the morale-boosting goal.

“It's somebody who was dreaming to play for Pirates. I know sometimes coming to a big club like this is not easy, sometimes you have to be patient because there is a lot of competition,” added the 47-year-old tactician.

"But he's getting there, he's working, and we are starting to see the benefits of his work. I was very happy about his goal, it's very important for his confidence, but I always had this trust in him because I know him from the previous club.

"And I know what he can bring for the club. He has a different profile compared to the other ones, but I'm sure we'll be able to use him in different games.

Pirates, meanwhile, swing back to action with the first leg of their MTN8 semi-final clash against Sekhukhune United at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

Hlayisani Magoro

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Football journalist from South Africa covering African football news, exclusive stories and key events while sharing insights with passionate fans of the game.

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