Orlando Pirates wrapped up their Spanish pre-season tour on a high note with a dramatic 2-0 victory over Granada, and a club insider has revealed that newly appointed head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou is pleased and looking forward to leading the team to success after a promising showing abroad.
After a string of competitive training matches in Marbella, the Buccaneers finally broke their winless streak against the familiar opposition of Granada – a side they had previously drawn 1-1 with in the 2024 tour.
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The latest encounter was locked in a tense stalemate until two late goals, from Patrick Maswanganyi and Relebohile Mofokeng secured a morale-boosting win.
“The coach has been left pleased and is very encouraged by the players’ attitude, commitment and response to his ideas,” the insider told the Siya crew.
“There were some testing moments throughout the trip, but the growth in cohesion and confidence is exactly what he was looking for. He’s now looking forward to starting his tenure with the goal of leading the team to success.”
The fixture was Pirates’ fourth and final game in Spain, where the squad spent valuable time under the watchful eye of Ouaddou, who was appointed during the off-season. The tour, according to sources, focused not only on match fitness but also on tactical adjustments and squad chemistry.
With players like Patrick Maswanganyi and Relebohile Mofokeng continuing to impress and new players such as Yanela Mbuthuma and Sinoxolo Kwayiba getting exposure, there’s a sense of optimism brewing within the Bucs camp.
“The coach has been using this tour to assess players and try different tactical approaches. The victory over Granada was deserved and gives the team momentum heading into the new season,” said the insider.
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Meanwhile, Pirates are now back in Mzansi to complete their preparations ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, which kicks off with the defence of their MTN8 title against Polokwane City at Orlando Stadium next weekend.
The Soweto giants are expected to carry over the confidence gained from Spain into the domestic season as they aim to build on their recent cup success and push for further silverware, this time under Ouaddou’s leadership.
Photo via@Orlando Pirates
