Despite facing a daunting 3-0 deficit after a difficult first-leg defeat
in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a spirit of defiance burns within the
Orlando Pirates camp. The Buccaneers are adamant they can still overturn the
result against Saint-Éloi Lupopo and secure a spot in the CAF Champions
League group stages.
The heavy loss at the Stade Kibassa Maliba, played in a hostile atmosphere,
has left the Soweto giants with a mountain to climb. However, head coach
Abdeslam Ouaddou is instilling a firm belief in his squad, drawing on his
personal experience within Congolese football to devise a winning strategy
for the return leg at Orlando Stadium.
A source close to the club confirmed the unwavering optimism, stating, “Yes,
it won’t be easy, but the coach and the team believe in their quality. The
coach understands Congolese football very well, and that gives him
confidence. Expect to see the Pirates everyone knows – playing attacking
football and putting opponents under pressure at home.”
This continental comeback is a central part of the club’s ambitious season
plan, which includes making a strong impression in both the Champions League
and the domestic league. After successfully defending the MTN8 title and
assembling a deep squad built for such challenges, the Buccaneers are not
ready to surrender.
While the task is monumental, the sentiment within the camp is one of steely
determination. With the electrifying support of the Orlando Stadium faithful
behind them, Pirates are drawing confidence from their history of memorable
comebacks, believing they can once again turn the impossible into reality.
