Ouaddou, a former Moroccan international centre-back who played for Fulham and Olympiakos, joined Gallants last Thursday.

His appointment follows the sacking of Dan Malesela in February after a string of poor results left Gallants hovering just above the relegation zone.

In his first game in charge on Saturday, Ouaddou guided a resurgent Gallants to an outstanding 2-0 win against the Soweto giants, Orlando Pirates, at a sold-out Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein.

Ouaddou expressed his delight at the victory against the Buccaneers but emphasised that his primary goal is to instil confidence in the squad. He believes the players are good enough not only to avoid relegation but also to become a competitive force in the PSL.

Gabadinho Mhango. Photo: Morgan Piek

“Yes, definitely – otherwise, I wouldn’t be here,” said Ouaddou.

“The first thing I told the players when I arrived was that they are very talented and experienced. Marumo Gallants has quality players. But in football, sometimes all a team needs is confidence. That’s exactly what we worked on in the first two days. I can guarantee you 100% that we will save the club – with determination, team spirit, and a fighting mentality.

“Yes, of course, we will save the club – I am positive and optimistic.”

While it is still early days for Ouaddou at Gallants, he highlighted the team’s fitness as one of the first areas that need to be addressed.

Edgar Manaka. Photo: Morgan Piek

Gallants will look to build on their impressive victory over the Buccaneers when they face fifth-placed Stellenbosch FC in Bloemfontein on Tuesday. In their last two games, Gallants drew 1-1 with fourth-placed Polokwane City and secured a win against second-placed Pirates. This indicates positive momentum, but a victory against Stellies will be crucial.

Tuesday night’s clash between Gallants and Stellenbosch at the Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium kicks off at 19:30.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek