Orlando Pirates rocked by highway accident involving Ouaddou and staff

Orlando Pirates are reeling from a tragic road incident that has left head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou and five members of his technical staff hospitalised.

The accident took place late on Sunday night on the R21 highway as the Buccaneers made their way back from Gqeberha. Pirates had just recorded a convincing 3–0 victory over Chippa United, but the celebrations quickly turned to shock and despair on their journey home.

According to the club, the team bus encountered a collision between two vehicles. Ouaddou and several staff members disembarked to assist those involved. In an unforeseen turn of events, a Nissan NP200 struck the stationary cars, crashing into the group that had gathered to help.

“Coach Ouaddou, along with the five affected staff members, were immediately transported to hospital, where they are currently receiving medical care,” Pirates confirmed in a statement.

The Soweto giants added that they remain in close contact with doctors and that updates on their recovery will be communicated in due course.

While Pirates are accustomed to dealing with pressure on the pitch, the club emphasised that the wellbeing of their coach and staff is the only priority right now.

“At this stage, our priority is the health and wellbeing of our colleagues. The Club has made arrangements to ensure that the affected individuals and their families receive all the necessary support during this difficult time,” the statement read.

The incident has cast a sombre mood over the Buccaneers camp. With the MTN8 final looming in less than two weeks, the focus has shifted from tactics and preparation to unity and prayer, as the football fraternity rallies behind Pirates during this trying period.