CR Belouizdad's Khanyisa Mayo shares excitement about returning home to face Orlando Pirates in the Caf Champions League - 'They’re wounded but we’re ready for them'

Ahead of matchday five in the Caf Champions League group stages, Group C is proving to be one of the most tightly contested as teams battle for the two spots that will secure a place in the knockout stages.

Orlando Pirates currently lead the group with eight points, closely followed by Al Ahly with seven.

On matchday four, Al Ahly lost to CR Belouizdad, who now sit in third with six points.

Belouizdad will travel to Orlando Stadium on Sunday afternoon, aiming to inflict Bucs' first loss and avenge their opening-day defeat.

Khanyisa Mayo, who has found his footing in Algeria, spoke to GOAL before his trip to South Africa and shared his excitement about returning to play at home.

“It’s always exciting to play Orlando Pirates, and this game is a must-win for us," Mayo exclusively told GOAL.

"They [Pirates] lost their last game, so they’re wounded and will want to bounce back, but we’re ready for them.

"It’s also my first time coming back to play at home since moving to Algeria, which makes it even more special.

"The vibe at Orlando Stadium is always amazing, and we can’t wait to play there and bring back positive results."

A win for Belouizdad against Pirates would be personal for the team, as it would provide them with revenge for their opening-day loss.

With nine points on the line and only one game left, the pressure to perform is intense.

As they head to Orlando Stadium, their focus is to secure a crucial victory to inch closer to advancing.

For Mayo, the stakes are just as high; the former Cape Town City striker is eager to add to his tally of three goals in 16 games across all competitions.

The Bafana Bafana striker knows the importance of this game and will be ready to give his all for his team.

The clash against Pirates is highly anticipated and could determine the final standings in the group.

The Gqeberha-born attacker is eager to secure a positive result and further enhance his growing reputation on the continent.

With just two games left in the group, a win could put them in a strong position to reach the last eight.