Ouaddou Takes Blame After Soweto Derby
Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou shouldered the responsibility for the tactical errors his troops displayed in the initial half, after a ruthless 2-1 victory over Kaizer Chiefs at FNB stadium Saturday afternoon.
Chiefs were relentlessly knocking to the crack the rock-solid defence of Pirates in the opening half, while Pirates were steadily building momentum. It was the 24th minute goal from Pirates striker Yanela Mbuthuma that broke the deadlock, with Kaizer Chiefs’ winger Pule Mmodi responding six minutes apart to level the matter on the half hour mark.
“I tried to surprise the opponent, making some tactical choice that was not spot on. The one we have to blame for the first half is the coach. I did it wrong,” said Ouaddou.
The two heavyweights teams went into the interval at 1-1, with Chiefs recording eight total shots, two shots on target, three corner kicks as well as 46% ball possession. Pirates enjoyed large spells of ball possession with 54%, registering four total shots, one shot on target, and two corner kicks. Both sides had created one big shot on target, in the opening half.
After the tactical changes that was implemented for the second half, the Buccaneers showed great attacking intent with the Bafana international Tshepang Moremi retaining the lead for his side on the 55’ minute.
The game was tightly contested, as Pirates took charge of the rhythm at home while Chiefs posed a threat on the counter-attacks.
After the adjustments made, Ouaddou said that his troops delivered a positive shift while also admitting the possible aftermath of his mistake. “I think the second half we were spot on, so if I have to define the game, I think Kaizer Chiefs had the opportunity to kill the game in the first half. Definitely, I think they could have easily come with maybe three-one at the halftime. They didn't take this opportunity,” he said.
While on the other hand, Chief head coach Fernandinho Da Cruz still acknowledged sub-optimal performance from his charges. “The analysis is very simple, easy because in the first half the the match must be finished. Our lack of efficiency. Normally we must win 2/3-0 in the first half,” said Da Cruz.
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