Former Pirates star Benni McCarthy has expressed doubts about whether the Buccaneers have the squad depth to compete effectively in both the continental tournament and the domestic Betway Premiership.
Orlando Pirates have prepared for a daunting CAF Champions League Group C showdown against Al Ahly at Orlando Stadium on Saturday, with kick-off set for 15h00.
Speaking at the Carling Black Label media event in Sandton earlier this week, McCarthy urged Pirates to prioritise one competition.
“I hope they are strong enough; so far, they are doing very well,” he said. “But when you aim to win the PSL title and reach the Champions League final, you need two squads.”
Pirates began their group stage campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over CR Belouizdad in Algeria. However, McCarthy noted the physical toll on the team after their recent 1-0 league defeat to Stellenbosch FC.
“The travel catches up with you,” he said. “They need their injured players back and fit because they’ll need every single player.”
Al Ahly, the reigning Champions League holders and record 12-time winners of the competition, are tied on three points with Pirates, having also won their opening fixture.
The Buccaneers have history on their side, drawing inspiration from their stunning 3-0 victory over Al Ahly in 2013, part of a memorable campaign that saw them reach the final. Despite losing that final 3-1 on aggregate, Pirates proved they could match the Egyptian giants.
Young talents Relebohile Mofokeng and Mohau Nkota, who impressed in the win against Belouizdad, will be pivotal as the Buccaneers seek to claim another historic victory.
With their domestic form solid but injuries looming, Saturday’s clash will test Pirates’ resolve and their ability to balance ambitions across two demanding competitions.