Orlando Pirates are on the cusp of advancing to the semifinals of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League, with a crucial second-leg clash against MC Alger.
The Buccaneers will be aiming to secure a place in the final four of Africa’s most prestigious club competition as they continue their pursuit of continental glory.
With the season drawing to a close, Orlando Pirates are in the hunt for silverware across multiple fronts. The team’s ambitions remain high, with a potential league title in the Betway Premiership still in reach, as well as a spot in the final of the Nedbank Cup.
However, it is in the CAF Champions League that the Pirates’ eyes are firmly set, seeking to add another continental achievement to their growing list of successes.
Read: Three Key Takeaways From Sundowns’ Journey to the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League Semifinals
Under the stewardship of coach Jose Riveiro, the Mighty Buccaneers have already made history, clinching an unprecedented third consecutive MTN 8 trophy earlier in the season. This achievement has highlighted the team’s consistency and hunger for success, further bolstered by their recent impressive form.
On April 5, they showcased their resilience with a narrow 1-0 victory over Polokwane City, keeping their hopes alive in the league. With three matches in hand, they have reduced the gap to Mamelodi Sundowns to just 12 points, offering a glimmer of hope for a thrilling title race.
Adding to their packed schedule, the Sea Robbers will face Marumo Gallants in the Ke Yona semifinal on April 13, following their dramatic penalty victory over SuperSport United last month.
Perhaps the most notable achievement came on the continent, where Pirates returned from Algiers with a slender 1-0 advantage in their African tie against El Mouloudia. The victory, capped by an invaluable away goal, has set the stage for an exciting return leg in front of their home crowd.
MC Alger remains dominant in their domestic league but recently saw their three-match winning streak halted by a 2-2 draw with Khenchela on March 15. The defeat to Pirates was just their second loss in Africa this season and only the second time the Algerian side has conceded a goal on home soil.
Pirates coach Riveiro emphasized the team’s relentless pursuit of success.
“Nobody can question our commitment. We’re fighting in every competition and we’re determined to win, no matter what. We will continue pushing to reach the level we need in every game. The numbers don’t lie; we’re not stopping until the very end, until the last day if necessary,” said the Spaniard.
With everything still to play for, the Buccaneers are setting their sights on making history and capturing more than just a title – but a legacy.
The clash against MC Alger is another critical moment in the Pirates’ season, as they look to carry the momentum of their domestic and continental efforts into the semifinals of the Champions League.
A win would bring them one step closer to adding yet another prestigious trophy to their collection. Kick off for the second leg quarter-final match up is set for Wednesday (18:00) at the Orlando Stadium in Soweto.