How Orlando Pirates can reach the CAF Champions League quarter-finals
Orlando Pirates face a tricky CAF Champions League group following Wednesday's draw. The Buccaneers have been drawn in Group C alongside Moroccan side RS Berkane, Tanzanian giants Simba SC and Cameroonian champions Colombe Sportive.
Pirates will need to finish in the top two to qualify for the quarter-finals. With the fixtures set to get underway in the coming weeks, head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou will need his experienced players fit and firing if the Soweto giants are to progress to the knockout stages.
How Can Orlando Pirates Reach the Quarter-Finals? The Buccaneers must target maximum points against Colombe Sportive, who appear to be the least experienced side in the group at this level of continental competition.
Winning both home and away fixtures against the Cameroonian champions would give Orlando Pirates six valuable points and put them in a strong position to qualify. Another team the Sea Robbers could target is RS Berkane.
The Moroccan side reached last season's semi-finals but have struggled for consistency recently as they find themselves amongst the bottom teams in the Botola Pro 1. The Buccaneers will need to take advantage of any weaknesses, particularly when playing at home.
Four points from their two meetings would be a positive return, while six would significantly boost their qualification hopes. Simba SC, however, could prove to be Pirates' biggest challenge.
The Tanzanian giants are experienced campaigners in African football and will be determined to secure their own place in the quarter-finals. Pirates must therefore make their home advantage count while remaining disciplined on the road.
Winning all three home matches and securing at least one away draw could give the Buccaneers a strong chance of progressing, although the final outcome will depend on results elsewhere in the group. With a balanced approach and consistent performances, Ouaddou's men have a realistic opportunity to reach the CAF Champions League quarter-finals.
Orlando Pirates last won the competition back in 1995. Can Pirates go all the way?