Abdesslam Addou discusses the rise of Tapelo Mokobodi at Orlando Pirates

Abdeslam Waddu experienced all the emotions of the Soweto Derby. When he did not express his disappointment by throwing objects or loosening his tie, he lay on the ground. However, in the end, everything made sense: the Moroccan triumphantly knelt down after the final whistle, clenching his fist and pointing it to the sky.

The Pirates, perhaps the most exciting team in domestic football since the start of the season, faced their second toughest test against bitter rivals Kaizer Chiefs. Previously, Pirates met Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 final.

After losing 2-0 in the final, it seemed that Pirates would fail again. But this match would have been even more painful because it was a derby where not only three points but also the right to national pride were at stake.

Chiefs demonstrated energetic play in the first half, despite an early miss by Vandile Duba and a goal by Pirates scored by Yanela Mbutuma. In fact, they created their own luck when Pule Mmodi scored after Sifo Chain failed to make a save.

Chiefs had many chances to finish the game in the first half by using spaces through timely runs, which was partly related to Waddu's mistaken system, which included using Dion Hotto on the right flank instead of his preferred position as a left-back.

The Pirates' midfield was also practically empty, and Lebohang Maboe and Sibongiseni Mtethwa easily controlled the game. But despite their dominance, Chiefs could not convert their chances, and the teams went to halftime with a score of 1-1.

The first half showed that Pirates are not yet fully tuned, and their young players must develop composure to deliver results in tense matches if they want to remain a dominant force.

However, Waddu seems to have instilled a kind of fighting spirit in this team, even when they find themselves in a difficult situation. Pirates demonstrated this in the second half, taking the lead thanks to Tshepangu Moremi.

Waddu might have thought they overcame difficulties by fielding Mteteleli Mtyana and Mpho Padime in the derby debut. The former seemed to accelerate the aging of the experienced coach, losing possession not once, but several times. Meanwhile, Padime proved more constructive that day.

It should be noted that Waddu looked disappointed not just because his team was not playing well, but also because Chiefs were making it easier for Pirates and were ready to attack.

This was largely due to the fact that coach Amahosi Fernando da Cruz did not look his best in the second half. Despite realizing that his team lost intensity in the remaining 30 minutes, he still refrained from tactical substitutions until the 75th minute.

This decision not only revealed a lack of Plan B but also hinted at an unwillingness to take risks, especially in a derby where the difference in score matters little compared to the result: win, draw, or loss.

Overall, Pirates won, and Waddu enjoyed the moment with the players and fans after the final whistle, demonstrating some graceful dance moves. This was a reward for a hard-fought victory, even if the performance also showed that his team still has a long way to go.

Orlando Pirates coach Abdelslam Waddu expressed the opinion that his squad includes young footballers capable of handling pressure and making an impression in the upcoming Soweto derby on Saturday against Kaizer Chiefs.

The 'Bucaneers' team has several promising young players who could provide the necessary impetus in a match where confidence, composure, and the ability to handle tension are crucial.

Among the rising stars that have attracted attention are Tapelo Mokobodi and Simphiwe Masilela. Waddu noted that the reason for playing should not be an obstacle to giving opportunities to young athletes.

In the Pirates coach's view, the key is identifying young players who feel comfortable under intense scrutiny, rather than those who might be overwhelmed by the match atmosphere.

Waddu stated: 'You need to analyze the profiles of the young players you have. If you have a young player who is excited by the crowd and happy to demonstrate their skills because they are confident, then that is the one you can throw into the game,' he said. He added: 'And I have such players, not just one.'

Thus, Mokobodi and Masilela may be contenders for playing opportunities, especially if Waddu believes their confidence and ability will help the Pirates overcome the Chiefs' defense. Furthermore, there are other options for young talents in the club's broader reserve, including Simphiwe Selepe, Kamren Dansing, Mpho Padime, and Mohau Nkota, although their participation will depend on the club's squad plans.

Waddu's comments indicate that when making selections, he considers not only age but also temperament and personal qualities necessary for performing under high pressure. The Soweto Derby provides a unique platform for new players to make a statement, and the Pirates hope that any young players entrusted with this task can maximize this chance. As the Buccaneers aim to maintain their status as the reigning league champions, the possibility of a young talent appearing adds another interesting dimension to Saturday's encounter.