Ouaddou explains why Chaine is Pirates’ secret weapon
Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has explained why Sipho Chaine is such an important figure in his team.
The Bafana Bafana goalkeeper offers more than just shot-stopping ability. He also plays a crucial role in organising his teammates and ensuring the team remains disciplined on the pitch.
Ouaddou was speaking after Pirates beat Namibia’s African Stars 1-0 in the first leg of their CAF Champions League second preliminary round tie in Gaborone, Botswana.
The Buccaneers coach stressed the importance of having leaders in every area of the pitch, including the goalkeeper, defence, midfield and attack.
“You need to have a leader in every area. It is important to have a team that works like a well-oiled machine,” said Ouaddou.
He highlighted Chaine, Deon Hotto and Nkosinathi Sibisi as key figures responsible for keeping their teammates organised, particularly when the noise from the stands makes it difficult to hear instructions from the technical team.
Ouaddou added that leaders must sometimes be forceful to get their teammates’ attention when concentration levels drop.
“Sometimes you need to be tough to wake those who are sleeping. You have to shout to wake them up,” he explained.
Chaine has also delivered between the posts, keeping 21 clean sheets in 30 Betway Premiership appearances during the 2025/26 season.
With Pirates pushing for a return to the CAF Champions League group stages, the goalkeeper’s leadership could prove just as important as his performances in goal.
- Abdeslam Ouaddou, Bafana Bafana goalkeeper, Betway Premiership 2025/26, Buccaneers goalkeeper, CAF Champions League qualifiers, Deon Hotto, MDNTV, mdntvlive, mdntvnews, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Orlando Pirates team discipline, Orlando Pirates vs African Stars, Sipho Chaine clean sheets, Sipho Chaine Orlando Pirates leadership, South African football news
