OPINION: Abdeslam Ouaddou is right about showboating: It serves no purpose
Football is entertainment, of course, but ultimately it is about scoring goals.
Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou sparked controversy after his remarks on showboating following his team's 3-1 victory over La Cure Waves in the CAF Champions League first qualifying round. The debate over showboating in South African football has resurfaced, questioning when entertaining skills become unnecessary. Ouaddou's perspective has merit; when a team is comfortably leading, players sometimes engage in pointless tricks, juggling, and elaborate moves to captivate the audience.
While some may argue this adds excitement, it ultimately detracts from the game's core purpose: scoring goals and winning matches. Football is entertainment, but it primarily revolves around winning. The days of players standing on the ball or constantly juggling are long gone, as it may garner cheers but does not contribute to a match's outcome.
Brazil's flair and creativity in modern football is different from mere showboating; their tricks serve a purpose, such as outsmarting opponents, creating space, advancing the ball, or scoring goals. South Africa must focus more on winning football matches to become a dominant force on the continent and globally. The emphasis should be on scoring goals, creating opportunities, and dominating the attacking third.
Football remains entertaining, but results ultimately define a team's success. Looking at historic matches, like Germany's 7-1 win over Brazil in 2014, or Manchester United's 8-2 thrashing of Arsenal in 2011, showcases the lasting impact of goal-scoring and ruthless play. These victories are remembered for their football and effectiveness, not flashy displays.
Therefore, perhaps we should interpret Ouaddou's comments not as an assault on South African football's culture but as an inquiry into the direction our football is heading. Flair is valuable, but without purpose, it is not beneficial. Skilled players understand when to entertain and, more crucially, when to challenge the opposition.
Maintaining the belief that showboating is integral to our game risks falling behind nations prioritizing ruthlessness and efficiency in crucial moments.
Written by urgent.news from The Citizen's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
