Ouaddou warns Pirates face tough Sekhukhune test in Carling Knockout

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has cautioned that this weekend’s Carling Knockout quarter-final against Sekhukhune United will be one of the hardest matches of their season, according to iDiski Times.

The two sides meet at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday, with kick-off set for 15h00.

Pirates have the record, but Ouaddou is wary

On paper, Pirates hold the upper hand. They have beaten Sekhukhune three times this year, including in the MTN8 and in the league. Last week they also won the Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs, which gave the squad a lift.

Ouaddou nonetheless believes Sekhukhune could bounce back strongly. They lost to Milford recently, and the Pirates coach thinks that setback could leave them motivated to cause an upset.

He said his team began preparing straight after the Derby and that he had spoken to the players about what to expect. “It will be one of the most difficult games,” he said, urging them to be careful against a team that has been hurt.

Ouaddou also pointed to the man in the Sekhukhune dugout. He suggested the coach did not previously have full control over his ideas, but said that is different now. He recalled that Pirates had many problems against the same coach when he was in charge of Richards Bay last season.

Home advantage and the title defence

Pirates are defending the title, and Ouaddou acknowledged that the home venue helps. He said the crowd, which he called the 12th man, “will give us power and energy”.

He was clear, however, that home advantage alone will not be enough. “We need to be in our highest form to win this game,” he said, describing Sekhukhune as a very tough opponent.

What fans need to know

• Match: Orlando Pirates v Sekhukhune United, Carling Knockout quarter-final
• Venue: Orlando Amstel Arena
• Date and time: Saturday, 7 November, at 15h00

Supporters planning to attend should allow extra time to get to the ground, as Pirates fans are expected to turn out in numbers for a cup tie at home.

This story is based on reporting by iDiski Times.