Extra Time: Orlando Pirates won’t need a miracle, but they need a win to avoid another embarrassing CAF exit, writes Michael Madyira.
Orlando Pirates are close to facing another embarrassing exit from the CAF Champions League.
After being knocked out by Botswana’s Jwaneng Galaxy last season, the Buccaneers now face a similar threat from the little-known CS Disciples from Madagascar.
In the first leg of the preliminary round on Sunday, Pirates struggled and ended up with a 0-0 draw.
Despite having a team of experienced and talented players, including international stars, Pirates couldn’t play at their best.
This was surprising, especially since the team had just returned from a pre-season camp in Spain, where they beat La Liga giants Sevilla 2-0.
But against a team of mostly semi-professional players, Pirates let their fans down.
Most Disciples players have other jobs outside of football, and while some play for Madagascar’s national team, they are not full-time professionals.
The match was held in Mauritius because Madagascar doesn’t have football facilities approved by CAF, so Disciples didn’t even have home support.
Still, they managed to hold off Pirates and nearly caused an upset.
Pirates have been strong in domestic cup competitions in recent years but have struggled in the Champions League.
This has led some fans to believe the current Pirates team isn’t built for continental football.
However, Pirates have a chance to prove their critics wrong when they play Disciples in the second leg on Friday.
They could learn from Mamelodi Sundowns, who have shown how to dominate weaker teams in the Champions League, like their 16-1 win over Cote D’Or in 2019 and their 15-1 victory over La Passe two seasons ago.
Pictured above: Orlando Pirates captain Olisa Ndah completes pre-match formalities before the match against Disciples.
Source: Mauritius Football Association
