Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Waddu commented on his squad building strategy, explaining how he balances maintaining players' physical condition with the club's demands for tournament victories.
The Pirates team defeated Durban City 2-1 thanks to a goal from Gamphani Lungu, who came on as a substitute, allowing them to advance to the semi-finals. Pirates are aiming to win their fifth consecutive title.
Despite significant changes in the squad during the off-season, Waddu faces the challenge of managing the team. He emphasized that some players still need time to gain match fitness and adapt to the demands of professional football, but the coach insists this should not come at the expense of results.
Waddu recalled the pressure he felt at the beginning of his first season when the team suffered a series of defeats. He stated: 'We are not in a circus; we have a professional ecosystem, and there are high expectations. If you want to recall my first two games last season, do you think I was happy having eight bodyguards around me?'
This past experience shaped his approach this season. Waddu made it clear that he intends to select players who, in his opinion, give Pirates the best chance of winning. He noted: 'Of course, I want to win; I will play with the strongest team because the fans want to win this tournament, the club wants to win it, and I want to win it too, and it won't be easy.'
Furthermore, the Pirates coach rejected the idea that players would be given opportunities simply because they needed game time. As competition for starting spots increases, he believes that players' performance in training and preparation will be the deciding factor. Waddu added: 'I will always play with the strongest team, and the people who deserve a starting spot will show it to me in training and preparation. I don't hand out flowers (good signs) to people because when we lose three matches, whose head is on the line?'
Waddu's stance is relevant as Pirates prepares for another demanding campaign on multiple fronts. The team must defend its title in the Betway Premiership while also participating in the CAF Champions League, making squad management critically important throughout the season. However, the immediate tournament remains the priority for now.
Pirates has already overcome the difficult stage against Durban City and will now focus on the semi-final, where Waddu must once again find a balance between maintaining momentum, managing the squad, and leading a team capable of defending its title.
