Orlando Pirates coach and staff injured in road incident

Zuko Komisa

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou and five staff members were seriously injured in a road accident on Sunday night.
The group was struck by a Nissan NP200 while assisting at the scene of an earlier collision on the R21 highway.
All six individuals are currently in hospital, with the club providing support and asking for privacy.

Orlando Pirates Football Club has confirmed that head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou and five members of the club’s staff were seriously injured in a road traffic incident on Sunday night.

The incident occurred on the R21 highway as the team was returning from Gqeberha following a 3–0 victory over Chippa United. According to a statement from the club, the team bus came across a collision involving two vehicles.

Coach Ouaddou and several staff members got off the bus to assist those involved in the initial crash. While they were attending to the scene, a Nissan NP200 vehicle collided with the stationary vehicles, striking the group and causing serious injuries.

All six individuals were immediately taken to hospital, where they are currently receiving medical treatment. The club stated that its main priority is the health and well-being of its colleagues and that it is in close contact with the medical team.

The club has arranged for the affected individuals and their families to receive all necessary support during this difficult time. Orlando Pirates has asked for privacy for those involved as they focus on their recovery, and further updates will be communicated when appropriate.