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Orlando Pirates will conquer Africa again! South African football great praises Buccaneers' 'hunger and purpose' for second Caf Champions League glory

Richards Bay

Orlando Pirates

Sekhukhune United

Cape Town City FC

Orlando Pirates climbed to the top of Group C after a commanding 3-0 victory over Stade d'Abidjan. This win bolstered their chances of advancing to the Caf Champions League knockout stage with two crucial games remaining. They face CR Belouizdad at home and a daunting trip to Cairo against Al Ahly. South African football icon Mlungisi Ngubane praised the team’s current form, citing their hunger, commitment, and teamwork. Ngubane likened the squad’s spirit to the legendary 1995 side, though he acknowledged differences in player quality.He emphasized that teamwork and purposeful play are key to Pirates’ progress in the competition.

WHAT HAPPENED?

"The way things are going for Pirates, it seems that a second star is on its way based on their performance," asserts former dribbling wizard Ngubane, as reported by <a href="https://www.snl24.com/kickoff/sanews/premiership/orlando-pirates/mlungisi-ngubane-on-pirates-quest-to-win-the-caf-champions-league-again-20250106" target="_blank">KickOff.</a>"They are showing hunger and playing good football. All the players are committed, and they approach every game with a clear purpose."I believe they embody the spirit of the 1995 team, even though the current squad may not have the same calibre of players in some positions.""While they might not have particularly strong players like Gavin Lane, they are still able to compete effectively," he continued.Ngubane also revealed the biggest reason behind Pirates' good progress in the competition."What is working for them is their teamwork," added Ngubane."This is their opportunity for a second star."I don't think their success is merely due to a decline in the standard of the CAF Champions League. I believe they are excelling because they are signing players capable of competing at a high level."

WHAT NGUBANE SAID

Pirates’ unbeaten run in the Caf Champions League highlights their hunger to establish themselves among the best in Africa. Jose Riveiro’s side has demonstrated teamwork and tactical precision to emerge as Group C leaders. By continuing this momentum, they edge closer to qualifying for the quarterfinals as one of Africa’s top eight teams. Securing this milestone would reaffirm their continental ambition and take them closer to earning a second star. However, the challenges of facing Al Ahly in Cairo will test their mettle in the race for glory.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Orlando Pirates travel to Cape Town to face Cape Town City, a team fresh off a win against fellow Soweto giants Kaizer Chiefs, with victory essential to keep pace with Mamelodi Sundowns.

WHAT NEXT FOR PIRATES?

Orlando Pirates will conquer Africa again! South African football great praises Buccaneers' 'hunger and purpose' for second Caf Champions League glory | Goal.com South Africa

Mlungisi Ngubane praised Pirates&apos; hunger, teamwork, and purposeful play, comparing their spirit to the legendary 1995 Caf Champions League-winning team.

Orlando Pirates will conquer Africa again! South African football great praises Buccaneers&apos; &apos;hunger and purpose&apos; for second Caf Champions League glory

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