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Ernst Middendorp questions Orlando Pirates' coach's leadership after Soweto Derby outburst
Middendorp suggested that the Orlando Pirates mentor fell short of the communication standards expected at elite level.
After the 1-1 draw between Orlando Pirates and Chiefs, Ouaddou expressed frustration with what he viewed as an overly physical contest, questioning whether the match resembled football or "karate."
Writing on LinkedIn, as reported by Soccer Laduma, Middendorp argued that such comments, while understandable in the heat of the moment, risk shifting focus away from the tactical and structural elements that define top-level coaching.
"The 'karate' comment is rooted in frustration. It reflects a coach who experienced the match as overly physical and lacking flow. But at the top level, the role of a coach does not end with feeling - it begins with framing," Middendorp, who also had coaching stints with Bloemfontein Celtic and Maritzburg United wrote.
The German tactician stressed that once a coach addresses the media, their words shape the narrative for players, supporters and officials alike. He believes Ouaddou's remarks redirected attention toward officiating and physicality instead of the football itself.
According to Middendorp, this approach can offer short-term protection by deflecting pressure from players, but carries longer-term drawbacks - including perceptions of disrespect toward Chiefs and a failure to confront internal performance issues.
"At elite level, communication is part of performance," he added. "A top coach absorbs emotional pressure and translates it into clarity, direction and accountability."
Middendorp, no stranger to derby controversy himself, previously experienced a similar situation when Rulani Mokwena criticised Chiefs' approach as "thuggish behaviour" after a heated clash in 2019.
Ironically, Middendorp has also built a reputation for outspoken views throughout his career, including public criticism of officiating and league integrity during his time with Cape Town Spurs.
Still, in this instance, he maintains that composure in communication remains a key pillar of leadership at the highest level of the game.
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