Orlando Pirates are firmly on track to make a strong push for the CAF Champions League title this season after securing their place in the quarter-finals. The Soweto giants have become one of the tournament’s top contenders, especially after their impressive victory over the defending champions, Al Ahly, in their final group-stage match. This victory not only propelled Pirates to the top of Group C but also boosted their reputation as one of the favorites to lift the trophy.
As they now prepare for the knockout rounds, there are two clubs in particular that Orlando Pirates should aim to avoid if they hope to go all the way and win the prestigious competition. Despite their strong performances so far, the quarter-finals will bring new challenges, and some teams have the experience and firepower to make life difficult for the Sea Robbers.
The first club to watch out for is Mamelodi Sundowns. While Pirates and Sundowns have had some tight encounters recently, the CAF Champions League is a different stage entirely. Sundowns’ experience in the knockout rounds gives them a significant advantage. They have players who are familiar with the pressures of playing in this high-stakes environment, having gone deep in previous editions of the competition. Coach Miguel Cardoso, who led Esperance to the final last season, knows what it takes to succeed in the CAF Champions League and would bring that knowledge to bear if Sundowns and Pirates were to meet in the knockout stage.
Another team to be wary of is Pyramids FC from Egypt. Despite finishing second in their group, Pyramids were a force to be reckoned with, scoring the most goals in the group stage alongside Al Ahly (14 goals). Their attacking prowess, demonstrated by a resounding 6-0 victory over Djoliba in their final group game, makes them a dangerous side. With a formidable strike force and plenty of attacking depth, Pyramids are capable of hurting any team in the knockout rounds, including Orlando Pirates.
As the Sea Robbers prepare for the quarter-finals, they will need to be cautious and well-prepared for the challenge that lies ahead. Sundowns and Pyramids, with their vast experience and clinical finishing, are two teams that could prove tough obstacles in Pirates’ pursuit of CAF Champions League glory.
