Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou believes the Betway Premiership title race is far from a two-horse contest, insisting that Kaizer Chiefs remain firmly in the picture despite perceptions that they are still rebuilding.
Pirates currently occupy top spot with 28 points, closely trailed by champions Mamelodi Sundowns, who remain the Buccaneers’ most obvious rivals. But Ouaddou has added a twist to the championship narrative, arguing that fourth-placed Chiefs — just four points behind Pirates — cannot be dismissed.
Speaking to Robert Marawa on 947, Ouaddou said he is monitoring two clubs very closely.
“I’m actually watching two teams… Sundowns and Chiefs,” he told the station.
Pressed on whether he genuinely believes Amakhosi can challenge for the title, the Moroccan tactician doubled down.
“As long as it is mathematically possible, we cannot forget them. The league is still open — don’t rule them out,” he said.
His comments arrive at a time when Chiefs fans are split between optimism and caution. Amakhosi have endured two seasons outside the top eight and entered the current campaign under pressure merely to qualify for next year’s MTN8. Yet, their improved performances under the new technical team have kept them within striking distance of the league summit.
Should Chiefs mount a sustained run and eventually pull off a title triumph, it would mark one of the most dramatic turnarounds in South African top-flight history — and their first league crown since 2015.
For now, Ouaddou’s message is simple: Pirates may lead the pack, Sundowns may carry the favourite tag, but the old Soweto foe, Kaizer Chiefs, remain a lurking threat ready to pounce.