Orlando Pirates will continue their quest for continental glory when they go up against MC Alger in the CAF Champions League quarterfinal first leg at the 5 July 1962 Stadium on Tuesday evening.
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Kick-off is at 9pm CAT (SA, GMT+2)
CURRENT FORM
Pirates booked their spot in the quarterfinals of the Champions League for the first time since 2013 by topping Group C ahead of Al Ahly. The Sea Robbers were unbeaten with four wins and two draws in the group stages.
As for their opponents, MC Alger, they finished second in Group A just a point below Al Hilal. The Algerian side only lost one group match, drawing three and winning two in their campaign so far.
WHAT WAS SAID
With the Buccaneers having a convincing campaign in the group stages of the CAF Champions League, coach Jose Riveiro has urged caution when it comes to declaring the team as favourites to win the tournament.
This came about after they showed hunger and drive against current champions Al Ahly.
“I am happy with the level of the players, as there was a great deal of competitiveness from both Orlando Pirates and Al Ahly,” he said.
“I mentioned before about the importance of the Al Ahly match. I think it is still too early to judge the tournament champion.
“We succeeded in obtaining 14 points and did not lose; we passed a difficult stage in the group stage. We still have a more difficult stage in the quarterfinals, so it is difficult to judge the title holder.”
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Larbi Tabti, MC Alger – Alger received a boost ahead of the quarterfinal first leg as the midfielder returned to full training. The 31-year-old could potentially add depth to the Algerian league leaders’ team as they target a victory with their home ground advantage in this clash.
Relebohile Mofokeng, Orlando Pirates – The young winger is coming off the back of an impressive showing in the World Cup qualifiers in Bafana Bafana colours, where he grabbed a goal on his full debut and will be expected to turn out in the match against the Algerians away from home.
