Abdeslam Ouaddou explains why World Cup can aid Pirates

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has explained why he believes the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup can be useful for his team.

The Soweto giants have somewhat become major contributors to the South African national team, having released a staggering nine players for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

However, Bafana Bafana crashed out in the Round of 16, much to the disappointment of many who had higher expectations after Hugo Broos' men clinched the Bronze medal in Ivory Coast in 2023.

Thus, Pirates players were subject to criticism, and the Moroccan tactician has admitted the onus is on the Bucs contingent to up the ante, with competition for places expected to be rife ahead of the continental showpiece - which Ouaddou believes can be a springboard for Pirates to achieve success.

“I think many people can be disappointed but I was there for the game of Zimbabwe, South Africa did their best. I don't want to come back on what happened in the AFCON, but they did their best. I think it gives the opportunity for the coach to see all his team in preparing for the World Cup,” he said.

"I think it's just an important moment for our players, they have a big challenge to perform now coming back from AFCON because they have three, four months - there is another big challenge and a big opportunity for the coach of the national team to select the best players of the country to go to represent South Africa for the World Cup.

"In one side it's good for us, it's good for Pirates as well because our players will be motivated to show themselves and to perform in order to be selected by the coach Hugo Broos. So, I think it's a good thing for us.

Meanwhile, Pirates return to Betway Premiership action with a clash against Marumo Gallants at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday, as they look to tighten their grip on the top spot.

Hlayisani Magoro

Editorfr, en

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