Pirates coach Ouaddou in hospital after car crash

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has been hospitalised after a car accident along with five others from the club, a statement said on Tuesday.

Ouaddou, 46, and the others were hit by a car on Sunday night after their team bus stopped at the scene of an accident after returning to Johannesburg from their 3-0 win over Chippa Unite in the Betway Premiership at the Nelson Mandela Stadium on Sunday.

“Upon encountering a collision between two vehicles, coach Ouaddou and several staff members disembarked from the team bus to assist those involved,” said the club.

“Tragically, while attending to the scene, a Nissan NP200 vehicle collided with the stationary vehicles, striking the group and causing serious injuries.

“Coach Ouaddou, along with the five affected staff members, were immediately transported to hospital, where they are currently receiving medical care,” the statement added.

Defender Thapelo Xoki was also hurt as well as goalkeeper Tyrone Damons, who had his leg broken in three places and underwent surgery on Monday.

The accident raises questions about Pirates’ preparations for the MTN8 final against Stellenbosch in Nelspruit on 13 September.

Earlier on Tuesday, the Premier Soccer League announced the game had been sold out.