What began as a night of celebration for Orlando Pirates ended in heartbreak when head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou and five members of his technical staff were hospitalised after a late-night accident on the R21 highway.
From Victory to Tragedy
The Buccaneers had just wrapped up a confident 3–0 win over Chippa United in Gqeberha on Sunday, a result that lifted spirits ahead of the upcoming MTN8 final. But on the long road back to Johannesburg, disaster struck.
According to the club, the team bus came across a collision involving two vehicles. Ouaddou and several staff members stepped out to assist those in need, embodying the spirit of community that football often inspires. But in a cruel twist, a Nissan NP200 ploughed into the stationary vehicles, hitting the group that had gathered to help.
Pirates Confirm Hospitalisation
In a statement, the Soweto giants confirmed that the injured staff were rushed to hospital, where they are receiving medical care.
“At this stage, our priority is the health and wellbeing of our colleagues,” the club said. “Arrangements have been made to ensure they and their families receive all the necessary support during this difficult time.”
Football Community Rallies
The news has sent shockwaves through South African football. On social media, messages of support have poured in from rival clubs, fans and PSL players alike. Many praised Ouaddou and his staff for their bravery in trying to help strangers on the roadside.
A Cloud Over the MTN8 Final
With less than two weeks until the MTN8 final, preparations for Pirates are now overshadowed by concern for their coach and colleagues. Instead of tactical drills and lineup debates, the focus within the camp has shifted to solidarity and healing.
For a team defined by resilience both on and off the pitch, the Buccaneers will now need to lean on that same strength as they wait for positive updates on their coach and staff.
