{
  "id": 15583883,
  "title": "Pirates coach Ouaddou explains Hotto absence",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/19/pirates-coach-ouaddou-explains-hotto-absence",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-19T08:56:42.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Citizen",
    "slug": "the-citizen",
    "url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/sport/soccer/local-soccer/pirates-coach-ouaddou-explains-hotto-absence/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has provided insight into why Namibian striker Deon Hotto did not play in the team's 1-0 victory over African Stars during the Caf Champions League final qualifying first leg match in Botswana. Hotto, a prominent figure in Pirates' squad, was not brought onto the bench during the game. Despite his contributions in the build-up to the match, Ouaddou opted not to field him, stating that the game did not offer him the opportunity to do so. The Buccaneers secured the win through a goal scored by Tshepang Moremi in the 75th minute, giving them a significant advantage heading into the second leg at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Friday. Ouaddou emphasized that Hotto is an 'African legend' but noted that the outcome of the match dictated his absence. The coach highlighted the importance of having leaders in all defensive positions, with Hotto being part of the spine of the team. He appreciated Moremi's performance, which resulted in a clean sheet, and expressed his satisfaction with the overall result, where Pirates scored one goal and maintained a strong defensive record.",
  "summary": "'Today he was part of the impact players,' said Ouaddou after the match,",
  "key_points": [
    "Pirates coach Ouaddou explains Hotto's absence due to lack of opportunity in the match.",
    "Hotto, an African legend, was not brought onto the bench despite his contributions.",
    "Pirates won 1-0 with Tshepang Moremi's goal and clean sheet, emphasizing defensive strength."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Prioritizing defensive stability and match outcomes over individual star power shifts the tactical focus toward collective results as the Buccaneers prepare for their crucial second leg.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}