Sports Etc
Orlando Pirates Prepare for CAF Champions League Clash Against Al Ahly Amid Squad Depth Concerns
Orlando Pirates will renew their rivalry with Egyptian giants Al Ahly in a crucial CAF Champions League Group C showdown at Orlando Stadium on Saturday (3 PM). The Buccaneers are riding high after a 2-1 win over CR Belouizdad in Algeria but face a sterner test against the 12-time champions.
Benni McCarthy Raises Squad Depth Concerns
Former Pirates star Benni McCarthy has expressed doubts about whether the team has the depth required to compete on both domestic and continental fronts. Speaking at a Carling Black Label event in Sandton, McCarthy advised Pirates to prioritize one competition to avoid burnout.
“I hope they are strong enough. But when you aim to win the PSL and go far in the Champions League, you need two strong squads,” McCarthy noted. “The travel, like their recent trip to Algeria, adds up and takes a toll. I hope they can recover their injured players and keep everyone fit.”
Pirates’ loss to Stellenbosch in the Betway Premiership last Sunday underscored McCarthy’s concerns about fatigue affecting performance.
Pirates will take inspiration from their 2013 triumph over Al Ahly. That year, they drew 1-1 at home before clinching a historic 2-0 victory in Egypt to advance to the CAF Champions League final.
Ahly, however, are formidable opponents. They are tied with Pirates on three points in Group C after also winning their opening match and boast unmatched pedigree in the competition.
Emerging talents Relebohile Mofokeng and Mohau Nkota were pivotal in the victory over Belouizdad. Pirates will hope the duo can replicate their form against the defending champions.
Pirates’ domestic performance this season suggests they have the firepower to challenge Al Ahly. However, McCarthy’s remarks serve as a reminder of the challenges of balancing domestic ambitions with a deep Champions League run.
A win for either side will position them as early favorites to top Group C, bringing both confidence and momentum for the matches ahead.
The stage is set for an epic battle, and Orlando Pirates will need every ounce of resilience and skill to outwit the experienced Egyptian outfit.
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