Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has explained how big the upcoming Soweto Derby is and the importance of playing it.
The Betway Premiership title race is heating up at the moment with Pirates and Sundowns pushing each other like nobody’s business. Sundowns dropped two points on Wednesday evening when they played a 1-1 draw against Stellenbosch FC.
Following the midweek results for Sundowns, Pirates remain top of the Betway Premiership, one point ahead of Sundowns, who have a game in hand.
Ouaddou who is in charge of his second Soweto derby explained how big this fixture is, as he received calls from all around the world regarding this magnificent match.
“It will be important because you’re not just playing the derby,” Ouaddou said during the official derby presser.
“The players have the history and legacy in mind, and it is one of the best games in Africa, not only in South Africa. This game is watched by people all over Africa and Europe.
“As I come from France, I can tell you that many people are asking about the game, and similarly, in England, where I played, many people are eager to watch it.
“I’ve even received calls from the USA. So, a lot of people are doing a good job preparing for the derby, and for us, it will be very important to prepare as well.
“We’ve been taking care of ourselves since the beginning of the season, focusing on how we want to compete and play against opponents.
“Whether we’re playing away or at home, our goal is to win. We won’t change our fighting spirit to start the game, and we know our target for the end of the season.
“We’re giving it our all, 100% commitment every day to reach the target.”
