Ouaddou admits Orlando Pirates still have a right-back problem despite Derby victory

The Buccaneers climbed to the top of the Betway Premiership standings after claiming maximum points against their bitter rivals, but Ouaddou admitted that one of his tactical experiments had failed to produce the desired results.

The Moroccan tactician surprised many by deploying Deon Hotto at right-back, with the Namibian international playing out of position as Pirates continue to deal with Kamogelo Sebelebele’s absence.

Ouaddou had hinted at a surprise before the encounter and later explained that Hotto’s experience as a left-back influenced his decision to try him on the opposite side.

“Look, when I told you about the surprise, it was Hotto as a right-back. But I cannot tell you that it was successful,” Ouaddou told SuperSport TV.

“We tried something because he has experience playing left-back. We said maybe at right-back. We were looking for a solution, but I think it was not successful. It’s why we changed afterwards.”

Hotto’s experiment was eventually abandoned, with Gamphani Lungu introduced in the second half and deployed at right-back as Pirates adjusted their approach.

The changes proved effective as the Buccaneers produced a stronger performance after the interval, something Ouaddou believes better represented the team’s identity.

“We made some changes in terms of players, but tactically as well. And we have seen the real face of Pirates in the second half. A team that is resilient, solid, able to play and able to score. These are the values of Pirates,” he said.

Ouaddou also stressed the importance of building a team capable of winning even when their attractive football is not working.

“In modern football, you have to be efficient, to be ruthless. You need to be complete.”