Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou believes that winning the Betway Premiership title with an entirely African backroom staff would send a powerful message about the continent’s capability and footballing competence.
The Buccaneers have emerged as strong contenders for the league crown as they aim to bring an end to the long-standing dominance of Mamelodi Sundowns, who have lifted the title for an unprecedented eight consecutive seasons.
The Sea Robbers currently sit at the top of the league standings with 35 points from 15 matches, holding a three-point advantage over second-placed Sundowns, who have accumulated 32 points.
Ouaddou says there is often a tendency to overlook the ability and professionalism of African coaches and support staff, despite their proven capacity to deliver results at the highest level.
He adds that success with a predominantly African technical team would challenge lingering stereotypes and reaffirm that competence and excellence are not defined by skin colour, but by knowledge, hard work, and dedication.
“When you’re a coach, you have to be very humble, I have fantastic people around me, African technical staff and we have to mention it,” said Ouaddou.
“My gift if I can the gift, if at the end of the season, we can win the title with all these African competences. It would be a very strong message to many people who don’t believe in African competencies.
“It’s my dream to push that staff and players to show the continent. We forget that in our continent, we forget that we have people who are able to deliver something, especially if you have black skin.
“It’s my dream to bring these people to the promise land.”
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