Orlando Pirates will face Algerian giants MC Alger, the 1976 CAF Champions League champions, in the quarter-finals next month.
Having finished top of their group, the Buccaneers are among the favorites to lift the title. They will face Algerian giants MC Alger, the 1976 CAF Champions League champions, in the quarter-finals next month. Playing the first leg away gives the Sea Robbers a significant advantage, knowing that the return leg will take place in Orlando.
The winner of this two-legged tie will then contest the semi-finals against the victor of the match between Egyptian side Pyramids and Morocco’s AS FAR.
If Pirates can get past MC Alger, they will be well-positioned to defeat either AS FAR or Pyramids in the CAF Champions League semi-finals.
Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly are also among the favorites, with one of them more likely to reach the final. A dream CAF Champions League final would feature Pirates against Sundowns; however, for this to occur, the Brazilians must overcome Esperance and Al Ahly, while Pirates have a somewhat easier path.
Relative to Sundowns, Pirates’ route in the CAF Champions League appears more favorable. If they can maintain consistency, they should be able to reach the final and potentially win the trophy. Riveiro’s side has a balance squad to compete and if the Buccaneers can stay injury free, they will add their second star.
Pirates have always found a way of reaching the CAF Champions League final and this year feels like it might be their year.
