By Micheal Madyira
Orlando Pirates are preparing for a tough rematch against Jwaneng Galaxy in the CAF Champions League, hoping to avoid a repeat of last season’s disappointment.
Last year, the Botswana Premier League champions knocked Pirates out of the competition at the same stage, stopping them from reaching the group phase. Galaxy won 1-0 at home in Gaborone, and although Pirates won 1-0 in the second leg at home, Galaxy came out on top in the penalty shootout.
Now the two teams will face each other again. Galaxy’s coach, Morena Ramoreboli, who led his team to the Champions League group stage for the first time last season, knows it won’t be easy.
“Orlando Pirates again,” Ramoreboli said after his team’s recent win against African Stars of Namibia.
“Another tough match is ahead of us. I know they came to watch us play. To be honest, there’s not much to say about Orlando Pirates. They are a bigger team than us, and we respect them as we did last time.”
Ramoreboli also mentioned Pirates’ recent 4-0 victory over CS Disciples as a sign of their strength.
“We know this will be a difficult match for us,” he added. “What they did against Disciples FC is impressive and shows they mean business this time.”
To reach this round, Galaxy had to win a tight penalty shootout against African Stars after both teams ended with a 1-1 aggregate score.
Despite Galaxy’s shaky performance, Pirates’ coach Jose Riveiro knows they are still a serious threat.
“We didn’t have an easy time against them last year. They are a tough team, and we’re all extra motivated,” Riveiro said.
“Jwaneng has more experience now, after making it to the group stage last season. They are strong at home. For us, it’s important to reach the group stage, which is something I really want to experience.”
Pirates will first play Galaxy away on September 13, with the second leg at home a week later.
Pictured above: Jwaneng Galaxy FC coach Morena Ramoreboli issuing instructions to his players during the match against African Stars
Source: Jwaneng Galaxy FC
