Can Orlando Pirates’ cup success finally lead to league triumph?
Orlando Pirates aim to convert their consecutive MTN8 titles into Betway Premiership success under new coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, despite facing the formidable Mamelodi Sundowns, who have dominated the league for eight years. Seen here: Pirate coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. Picture: Itumeleng English/Independent Media
Image: Itumeleng English/Independent Media
Four MTN8 titles in a row is no fluke, and for Orlando Pirates the burning question now will be how do they turn that into league success.
The short answer as to why Betway Premiership honours may continue to elude the Soweto Giants is just two words: Mamelodi Sundowns.
Pirates are an incredibly strong side, and testament to this is the fact that they have finished runners-up in the league for the last three seasons in a row.
Sundowns, of course, have won the league the last eight times in a row. They are simply unstoppable.
Squad Value Disparity Between Buccaneers and Sundowns
But if ever there were to have a chink in their armour exposed, it would surely be the Buccaneers who would pounce.
However, Pirates currently boast a squad value of around R454 million, while Sundowns are worth approximately R633 million.
That’s nearly a difference of R200 million in squad value, and a difference like that will never likely be decided by something like ‘which teams want it more’ as the players will often tell anyone who will listen.
Abdeslam Ouaddou: The Unexpected Coach Leading Pirates to MTN8 Glory
The one major difference card up their sleeve may actually be something they’ve been criticised for recently. That’s their new coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. Ouaddou took over after José Riveiro left his post surprisingly before the end of last season and was seen as a surprise appointment.
Like Riveiro, Ouaddou’s abilities to lead a side like Pirates were questioned immediately. What followed though is nothing short of incredible as it led them to the MTN8 title after a short time in charge. The Moroccan had previously worked with Marumo Gallants and therefore it was seen as a massive step up to lead the Sea Robbers.
But that’s exactly it, in Ouaddou Pirates had something of an unknown element. That element though is beginning to appear something resembling silver in hue, perhaps similarly coloured trophies are also in Pirates’ future.
* The views expressed are not necessarily the views of IOL or Independent Media.
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