Xola Mlambo of Orlando Pirates challenged by Perfect Chikwende of FC Platinum, March 2019Backpagepix

Edward Motale: All is not lost for Orlando Pirates in the Caf Champions League

Former Orlando Pirates defender Edward Motale says the Buccaneers can still reach the knockout stages of the Caf Champions League, but only if they convert their chances.

The Soweto giants are set to face AC Horoya in their final Group B match next weekend and a win will help them reach the lucrative stage.

“I think they have to win and they can qualify. It’s a must-win next weekend and that is the only solution for them to reach the next round – I think scoring goals as early as possible will help,” Motale told Goal.

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“They put themselves under pressure because they did not come back as early in the game on Friday night. They really played well and showed us they want a win, but it was too late,” said the legend.

“However, I believe all is not lost, the draw is not a train smash and I also remember us in 1995, we played a draw against Asec Mimosas at home and went on to win away when nobody gave us a chance,” he added.

With the Premier Soccer League (PSL) represented by the Soweto giants and Mamelodi Sundowns in the continental tournament, ‘Magents’ insists Pirates will join the Brazilians who have already booked their passage into the next stage.

“Yes, they must look at Sundowns. Taking your chances in the first half especially at home is very helpful, I believe Pirates will learn a thing or two from Sundowns,” he continued.

“On the other hand, focusing on your race and look for favours from elsewhere is not a good idea here. Pirates must just go to Guinea and score goals, win the match and forget about the other teams in the group,” said the 1995 African Champions League winner.

Coach Milutin Sredojevic’s men are number three on the standings in Group B and will have to beat Horoya to join Esperance de Tunis in the quarter-finals.

“I believe it is possible, the players are good and talented, the coaching staff is experienced and there is hunger, they just need to start the game and finish well,” he responded.

Speaking about coach Pitso Mosimane’s men who have reached the knockout stages after beating Lobi Stars 3-0 on Saturday night, the former Bafana Bafana defender says their experience will hold the Tshwane giants in good stead. 

“Yeah it is good news to have a local team qualifying to reach the next stage and it’s only up to them to go further,” added Motale.

“They have represented the South African flag very well in the past few years. There’s nothing much left for us to say except the fact they must continue doing well because they are experienced and I am hopeful Pirates will join them,” he said.

“Both teams (Pirates and Sundowns) have been there and done that, and it’s only up to us to support them and ensure they do well - congratulations to Sundowns,” concluded Motale.

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