During a tense match between Orlando Pirates and Durban City, confrontations arose between the two coaching benches. The incident occurred during the goalless draw at the Orlando Amstel Arena, where Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou was seen in a heated exchange with members of the Durban City bench.
Ouaddou later addressed the incident, stating that it was not unusual given the aggressive playing style of Durban City. He expressed his concerns regarding the physicality exhibited by the opposing team, highlighting the need to protect players on the field.
“There is a difference between playing strong with physicality on the ball and to break the players; this is not the mentality and never will be mine,” Ouaddou remarked. He emphasized the importance of setting a positive example for the younger generation, stating, “We don’t have to forget that in the stands there are children. We have to be an example, football has to be a bridge, and example, a model for the next generation.”
Following the match, Ouaddou mentioned that he and Durban City coach Pitso Dladla had a constructive conversation, with Dladla apologizing for the earlier tension. The draw leaves Orlando Pirates needing a victory against Orbit College next weekend in Mbombela to secure the PSL title this season.