Ouaddou spoke with genuine warmth and relief after his side’s 2-0 win over Orbit College at Mbombela Stadium sealed a first Betway Premiership title in 14 years – and he made sure the credit went to the right people.
“I think it’s a big moment for the Orlando community, for the fans. They’ve been waiting for a long time – 14 years, it’s a lot,” Ouaddou said. “I’m a happy man today to bring joy to millions of people. I think they deserve it.”
The Moroccan coach reflected on a season that was never straightforward, managing the third youngest squad in the PSL through moments of doubt and pressure that would have broken lesser groups.
“I told you that I have the third youngest team in the PSL so there is some advantage but as well you have to accept some weaknesses. Sometimes it comes on the mental side – you can see in the first half we were a little bit stressed, we wanted absolutely to score instead of managing the game. But after we scored, the team had more calmness, more composure.”
Ouaddou also addressed the controversy surrounding last week’s goalless draw against Durban City – a result that had many questioning whether the title was slipping away.
“That point we dropped last week – it was not a dropped point. It was a good point. And today we bring the fans the title.”
He ended with a heartfelt tribute to everyone who played a part behind the scenes.
“Congratulations to the board, to our fans, to my technical staff, analyst staff, medical staff and all the people working in the shadows. I think it’s a big achievement for them. It’s a day that will stay in the memories for a long time – and I am a happy coach.”
Photo: Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images
