Orlando Pirates' latest coaching gamble echoes Jose Riveiro's yesteryear surprise appointment

IOL News

27-06-2025

Orlando Pirates have rolled the dice again.
Three years ago, when Orlando Pirates made the controversial choice to recruit relatively unknown Spaniard Jose Riveiro as their head coach, scepticism flooded sports forums.
Many questioned the wisdom of one of Africa's most storied clubs looking to Finland's First Division for inspiration, especially considering the nation's modest ranking of 69th in the world. Fast forward to this week, and the sea of doubt has resurfaced, but this time directed at the new head coach, Abdeslam Ouaddou.
Riveiro's tenure did not start very well, but instead of firing him, Pirates persevered with him, much to the disgust of the club's demanding supporters who mocked him by labelling him a 'plumber'. This is a common term used by locals as a veiled reference to an unknown coach, hailing from a relatively obscure coaching background.
The quiet Spaniard surprised many by leading the Pirates to significant victories, including lifting the MTN8 trophy in 2022. His adept blend of strategy and a fresh take on football impressed both supporters and critics alike. The calculated risk had yielded unexpected rewards.
The Moroccan-born Ouaddou's first coaching appointment was with Algeria's national football team as an apprentice coach in 2020. He worked alongside Frenchman Djamel Belmadi, a vastly experienced coach.
When Ouaddou joined Marumo Gallants last season, he brought a fresh approach that was needed to save the club from relegation, and he did so in style with a shock win over Pirates.
The Pirates, known for their rich history and passionate following, have opted for Ouaddou instead of coaches like Pitso Mosimane and Rhulani Mokwena, both of whom are presently jobless.
Pirates' management will need to harness patience and support for Ouaddou as he embarks on this challenging journey. Like Riveiro, Ouaddou must navigate the complexities of South African football, which is fraught with expectations from a fanbase eager for success.
The pressure to perform is immense. If results do not materialise sooner rather than later, the fog of inefficiency will cloud the Mayfair-based team's ambitions for success.
The risk was glaringly apparent during Riveiro's tenure, but the initial gamble became a defining chapter in the club's recent history, culminating in exciting performances and revitalised enthusiasm among supporters.
As Ouaddou begins crafting a philosophy that aligns with Pirates' ethos, he may yet become the next unexpected success story in the club's illustrious narrative.
No doubt, fans will be wondering if Ouaddou will replicate the magic that Riveiro and hope that this audacious move pays dividends in the quest for glory.