Ex-Orlando Pirates coach Roger De Sa makes shocking prediction, details why he thinks Jose Riveiro's men will not reach Caf Champions League final - 'I don't think the Buccaneers have players who have the ability to make an impact'

Orlando Pirates drew 0-0 with Pyramids FC in the Caf Champions League semi-finals, first leg at FNB Stadium last weekend.

It leaves them needing a victory or a scoring draw in Friday's second-leg in Egypt to advance to the final.

But the Buccaneers former coach Roger de Sa does not see Jose Riveiro's men getting past Pyramids.

"I watched the Orlando Pirates match against Pyramids, and I was impressed by Pyramids' level," De Sa said as per Soccer Laduma. 

"They played the match with confidence, and it was unfair for the match to end in a draw without achieving a win. I expected Orlando Pirates to be the strongest team on their home ground, and I was surprised by Pyramids' method.

"Pyramids are in a very good position now, and I think they are the most likely to qualify," added the current Cape Town City assistant coach.

"Of course, Orlando Pirates should not be underestimated because they are good at counter-attacking and are still a strong team, but Pyramids are the best team at the moment.

"I don't think Orlando Pirates have players who have the ability to make an impact. I think they played with their best lineup, and I don't expect major changes.

"Perhaps individual performance will improve a little, but if Pyramids continues to perform at the same level, they will qualify."

De Sa was the last coach to guide Pirates to the final of the Champions League when he led them to the decider of the 2013 edition, where they fell to a 2-0 defeat to Al Ahly in Egypt after a 1-1 draw at Orlando Stadium in the first leg.

But Riveiro now stands a chance to get to where De Sa reached and could even do better by winning this tournament, which the club last clinched in 1995.

Pirates have a 2-1 away victory over Al Ahly from the group stages earlier this year to look at for inspiration on how to get a win in Egypt.

Riveiro and his team are still fighting for trophies on three fronts - Caf Champions League, PSL and Nedbank Cup - but a continental win would be the crowning glory for their coach before he departs at the end of the season.

The Soweto giants are already in Cairo preparing for Friday's key match.

They would be hoping to maintain an impressive away record in North Africa this season which saw them also beat Algeria sides CR Belouizdad and MC Alger on the road.