Orlando Pirates Chase Historic Treble, But Ouaddou Plays Down Nedbank Cup Advantage

Orlando Pirates may already have two trophies in the cabinet this season, but head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou insists there is no room for complacency as the Buccaneers turn their attention to the Nedbank Cup.

Having lifted both the MTN8 and the Carling Knockout, Pirates now have a rare opportunity to complete a memorable knockout treble. However, Ouaddou has made it clear that past success will count for nothing when the next challenge begins.

Pirates’ Nedbank Cup campaign gets underway on Saturday in Durban, where they face Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila in the Round of 32 at Moses Mabhida Stadium. The venue remains fresh in the minds of the Soweto giants after their 2–0 Betway Premiership victory over AmaZulu at the same ground on Tuesday – a result that saw them move to the top of the league standings.

With confidence high, the Buccaneers have chosen to remain in Durban rather than return to Johannesburg, using the continuity to fine-tune their preparations ahead of the knockout clash.

Despite the familiarity with the stadium, Ouaddou has been quick to dismiss any suggestion that the setting gives Pirates an advantage.

“If you have seen, we stayed here, we didn’t travel back. We stayed here, we came with 22 players. It means how much we take this competition very seriously and we respect the opponent,” Ouaddou said.

“One thing that is very important for us is the chance, the opportunity to stay and to play in the same stadium. It’s important, but it doesn’t guarantee us anything.”

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou (Image: @orlandopirates/ X)

Those comments underline Pirates’ cautious approach as they prepare to face a Tshakhuma side with nothing to lose – a dangerous prospect in a competition known for giant-killings.

While the possibility of completing a historic treble will inevitably excite supporters, Ouaddou’s message is clear: each match must be treated on its own merits. The Nedbank Cup has a reputation for producing surprises, and Pirates are well aware that reputation alone will not carry them through.

As the Buccaneers look to take the first step toward another piece of silverware, the focus remains firmly on discipline, respect for the opposition, and execution on the pitch.

Whether Orlando Pirates move one step closer to Nedbank Cup glory – or whether Durban delivers another twist – will be decided on Saturday.