After spending time away from home undergoing intense preparation in Austria, Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso stated that the camp boosted team morale. After winning fourMTN8crowns in succession, it is easy to assume thatOrlando Pirates will win a record-extending fifth Wafa Wafa Cupin a row. However, if last season’s finishes across competitions and continuity are anything to go by,Mamelodi Sundowns– and not Pirates – are clear favourites to claim this season’s MTN8 title.
Pirates started the campaign well, launching their Betway Premiership title defence with a 2-0 win over Milford FC. That boosted morale, given their desire to defend all three of their trophies, including the Carling Knockout. However, their performance did not send a strong message about their intentions to dominate the league this season.
The team lacked cohesion and fluidity, allowing the new kids on the block to look good and demonstrate that they are not in the top flight merely to make up the numbers. Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou was candid about his team’s performance, admitting they have yet to gel as a unit despite spending over two weeks in intense preparation in Marbella, Spain, where they faced notable opponents such as Al-Ittihad in friendly matches. Amid his admission, Ouaddou seemed to send an indirect message to management, stating that he needs to trim his bloated squad to a manageable size following the arrival of more than eight new faces, including Sibangani Zulu, Neo Rapoo, Mthetheleni Mthiyane, Sebastien Pardesen, and Bohlale Ngwato.
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If they fail to trim the squad, the Moroccan stressed they would need at least two training facilities – an unsustainable arrangement that would overstretch their coaching staff. Ouaddou is right. While he may need greater squad depth than last season, he still requires a core, trusted group.
Defending the league title remains his priority; however, performing well across all competitions, including the CAF Champions League, is equally crucial. Performing on the continent separates the men from the boys. After Pirates crashed out in the qualifiers last season, early critics emerged with calls for Ouaddou’s dismissal.
The coach responded with aplomb, though, silencing his naysayers by winning the MTN8. Claimed over four matches, it seemed like a straightforward feat. He will likely want to ensure they start this season’s competition on a high as well, aiming to defeat Durban City in the MTN8 quarter-final at their home fortress, Orlando Amstel Arena. However, his team’s character will be tested as the competition progresses, given the high expectations and their overall ambitions.
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