Pirates zoom in on CAF Champions League

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou emphasizes that the CAF Champions League will be the primary focus for the upcoming season. Last season, the defending Betway Premiership champions struggled and were eliminated in the preliminary round, which has impacted their seeding. Pirates are currently in Mauritius for the first-round preliminary stage, set to kick off this coming weekend, with hopes of qualifying for the group stage.

Pirates have had inconsistent performances in the CAF Champions League over the years. Since 1997, they have taken part in the competition 10 times but have been eliminated in the preliminary round four times in their last six appearances. Ouaddou stresses the importance of setting the record straight and regaining their momentum.

"It's only the beginning of the season. The boys are doing well. We are following the momentum, the tempo. A lot of important games are coming, and the big test is coming," he says. One of the crucial games is expected to be against MTN, which Ouaddou considers a major target for the season.

Recently, Pirates have shown a resurgence in their attacking play. Earlier this week, they decisively defeated Betway Premiership newcomers Kruger United with a 4-0 scoreline. Ouaddou acknowledges the need to address certain areas of their game, but the team's strong defensive record will be a key factor in their upcoming match against La Cure Waves of Mauritius.

"Let's correct the things we have to correct, but it's not easy because when you give time to everybody you try to rotate as well. Let's be happy and keep on going," Ouaddou explains.

Defensively, Pirates have proven to be a solid team, as Ouaddou points out. The coach believes that this strength will be instrumental in their upcoming challenge against the Mauritian debutants. The return leg of the match will be played in Soweto on September 12th.