Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has backed his players to go all out in the African Cup of Nations [AFCON].
Nine Pirates players are among the 25-man Bafana Bafana squad to do battle in Morocco later this month.
During the AFCON break, some of the Buccaneers players will use this time to rest, while the remaining nine will arrive at camp and prepare for the continental tournament.
Ouaddou wins second trophy with Pirates
“The AFCON breaks comes at the right moment because we have been playing so many games, if you take in consideration Champions League, cups and league,” said Ouaddou said after the Carling Knockout Cup final.
“We played more games than many teams, so the break comes at the right moment and it’s a moment for the national team as well.”
The Moroccan coach is not worried about his players returning from AFCON carrying injuries; in fact, he has encouraged them to go all out and fight for their country.
With two trophies already won under Ouaddou, Orlando Pirates players go into the tournament high and confidence.
“The nation needs our players; the nation needs fit players. I want them to give everything; it’s not a holiday for some of them,” the Pirates coach added as per iDiski Times.
“The guys who are going to the national team, I’ll watch their games, and I’ll be close to them and will evaluate their performances because I told them, they must go to the national team and give 100% for their country.”
Since joining Orlando Pirates in July, Ouaddou has become an instant crowd favourite, having won two trophies already and his side is currently top of the Betway Premiership. A good second half of the season could see him end the Buccaneers’ 13-year league drought.