Abdeslam Ouaddou remains defiant after Richards Bay slip

By Velile Mnyandu
11th April 2026

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has admitted that their hopes of ending a 14-year league title drought are hanging by a thread after dropping two valuable points last night in Richards Bay.

Pirates were held to a thrilling 2-2 draw by Richards Bay FC and needed a late added-time equaliser from defender Lebone Seema to salvage a valuable point.

With only six games to go in this campaign, the Buccaneers are now one point behind defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns, who have an extra game in hand, but Ouaddou has refused to throw in the towel.

"We didn't get the three points so things will become difficult for the rest of the league, but nothing is impossible – when I tell you it will be difficult, it means we still have a small chance to dream," said Ouaddou.

"We don't have to gamble this small chance, we have to play every game until the end and we will see what happens."

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he Natal Rich Boyz have proven a difficult team to beat, especially at home – where they also beat Kaizer Chiefs this season.

They are still to welcome Sundowns to the Umhlathuze Sports Complex on the 25 April, and Ouaddou hopes for a huge favour.

"Today I told you it was a tough game, in a small pitch with a very good team, and I don't think there are many teams who are going to win here," he stated.

"I hope so [for a favour] – it's a team that has great character, good organisation, and what is important is the fighting spirit and fitness they have.

"I think they are one of the best teams in the PSL, and they are very professional, they are winners and they are competitive, so I feel every team coming here will suffer.

"So, of course, we are going to watch closely that game [against Sundowns], and for us it's important just to keep working and keep fighting until the last game, the last second – we don't have the right to be pessimistic at this time."