Former Premier League Star Ouaddou Hospitalized in South African Crash

Breaking: Orlando Pirates Coach and Staff in Serious Highway Accident

Former Morocco international and ex-Fulham midfielder Abdeslam Ouaddou, along with defender Tapelo Xoki, has been hospitalized following a serious road accident near Gauteng, South Africa. The incident occurred on Sunday evening, August 31, highlighting the ongoing concerns about road infrastructure safety across the African continent.

Accident Details

The 46-year-old Orlando Pirates manager was injured while attempting to assist victims of an initial crash on the R21 highway. According to reports, Ouaddou and five members of his technical team were returning from a successful match when the incident occurred, reminiscent of recent tragic incidents that have shocked the African sporting community.

"Head Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou and five staff members were involved in a road traffic accident on Sunday night. The incident happened on the R21 highway as the team traveled back from Gqeberha after a 3-0 win over Chippa United," stated Orlando Pirates in their official release.

Medical Status and Team Impact

ESPN sources report that defender Xoki sustained a knee injury requiring further evaluation, though initial assessments suggest less severe damage than feared. This situation has drawn attention from across African football, with continental sporting leadership expressing solidarity with the affected team members.

Ouaddou's Distinguished Career

• Premier League experience with Fulham (2001-2005)
• Successful stint in French football with Rennes and Nancy
• Qatar Stars League champion with Al-Duhail SC
• Current Orlando Pirates head coach since June 2025