Orlando Pirates legend Tebogo Moloi, who played a key role in the club’s history and later served as assistant coach under various tacticians, has opened up about the reasons behind their defeat to Al Ahly in the 2013 CAF Champions League final. The Buccaneers had a remarkable campaign that year but fell short of claiming the continental crown, losing 3-1 on aggregate to the Egyptian giants.
In an exclusive interview, Moloi reflected on the team’s journey to the final and pinpointed key factors that contributed to their downfall. “We had an incredible run in that tournament. The players showed immense heart and determination, overcoming some of Africa’s toughest teams. But when it came to the final, there were critical aspects that worked against us,” he said.
Moloi highlighted Al Ahly’s superior experience and tactical discipline as a major challenge for Pirates. “Al Ahly are seasoned campaigners in African football. They knew how to manage the big moments, especially in the second leg in Cairo. Their ability to remain composed under pressure and capitalize on our mistakes was the difference.”
He also pointed out that Pirates, despite their quality, lacked the same level of experience in such high-stakes matches. “For many of our players, this was the first time reaching such a stage. Al Ahly, on the other hand, had been there countless times. That familiarity with the pressure of a final gave them an edge.”
Moloi lamented the missed opportunities in the first leg, which ended in a 1-1 draw at Orlando Stadium. “We created chances, but we didn’t convert them. In games like these, you must be clinical because opportunities are rare against a team like Al Ahly. We could have gone to Cairo with a stronger advantage.”
He also noted the importance of crowd support in Cairo, where Al Ahly played in front of a passionate home crowd. “The atmosphere in Cairo was intense. The fans were their 12th man, and it made a significant difference. Our players weren’t used to such hostility.”
The Pirates legend also mentioned the physical and mental toll of the campaign. “Reaching the final meant going through a grueling schedule, traveling across the continent, and playing in challenging conditions. By the time we got to the final, fatigue was a factor. Al Ahly managed their squad better, and it showed.”
Despite the loss, Moloi believes the experience was invaluable for Orlando Pirates and South African football. “It was a tough pill to swallow, but we learned so much from that campaign. It showed us what it takes to compete at the highest level in Africa. The players gained invaluable experience that has helped the club in subsequent tournaments.”
He remains optimistic about the future of South African clubs in continental competitions. “South African teams have the talent and potential to dominate Africa. With proper planning, tactical discipline, and experience, we can win more trophies at this level.”
Moloi’s insights provide a glimpse into the challenges and lessons from one of Orlando Pirates’ most memorable campaigns. While the 2013 CAF Champions League title eluded them, the Buccaneers’ journey to the final remains a proud chapter in their history and a source of inspiration for the next generation of players.
