Orlando Pirates Finally Break Their Winless Streak as Ouaddou Breathes Easier

For weeks, the tension inside Orlando Stadium had been building. Orlando Pirates, one of South Africa’s most storied football clubs, had stumbled through the start of their Premiership campaign with back-to-back defeats. But last night, relief finally arrived.

The Buccaneers secured their first league victory of the season, grinding out a 1-0 win against Stellenbosch FC in Soweto. The goal a thunderous strike from Kamogelo Sebelebele in the 15th minute gave Pirates the early advantage they desperately needed. For coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, it was more than just three points. It was breathing space.

A First in Three Years Against Stellies

This wasn’t just any win. Stellenbosch had become a bogey team for Pirates, going nearly three years and six league meetings unbeaten against the Soweto giants. Ouaddou and his men not only broke that streak but did so in front of their home crowd, where the pressure has been particularly unforgiving.

Fans on social media were quick to celebrate the moment, with many praising Sebelebele’s composure and energy. “That strike deserves to be goal of the week,” one supporter wrote on X, while others called it the spark Pirates needed to reignite their season.

Ouaddou’s Relief and Reflection

After the final whistle, Ouaddou’s emotions were clear. “We’ve been waiting for this moment for two, three weeks,” he admitted, smiling in relief. He praised his side’s first-half dominance, crediting their aggressive pressing and tactical discipline for frustrating Stellies’ dangerous counter-attacks.

But the Moroccan-born coach wasn’t letting excitement mask reality. He admitted that his side lost control at times, particularly in the second half. “We need to learn to kill the game. To score that second or third goal so we don’t play in fear.”

Still, he insisted that this victory was a turning point: “Let’s enjoy these first three points. I hope it’s the beginning of our season.”

A Step Forward, Not the Finish Line

For Pirates fans, the result is a relief, but expectations remain high. Ouaddou may have earned himself a reprieve, but the Buccaneers will be judged on consistency, not just one hard-fought win.

The Soweto giants have been searching for stability in recent seasons, with coaching changes and patchy form frustrating a fan base accustomed to silverware. Ouaddou knows this victory is only the first step in rebuilding trust and momentum.

As the team looks ahead, the hope is that Sebelebele’s strike will be remembered not just as a brilliant goal, but as the moment the Pirates’ season finally came alive.

Source:SABC Sport 

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