Orlando Pirates face five key tests in CAF Champions League return

Orlando Pirates must strengthen their goalkeeping cover and learn from last season’s painful exit if they are to progress in the CAF Champions League this term.

The South African club begin their campaign against La Cure Sylvester in Mauritius on Sunday, with kick-off at 13:30. Pirates are returning to the competition determined to recover from their failure to reach the group stage last season, when they were beaten on penalties by St Eloi Lupopo after the tie finished 3-3 on aggregate.

Their experience against the Congolese side highlighted several areas that will need attention as they attempt to compete on the continent while also defending their domestic honours.

Avoid underestimating opponents

Pirates paid a heavy price for their approach in the first leg against St Eloi Lupopo in Congo.

Then-manager Abdeslam Ouaddou selected a makeshift starting XI dominated by new arrivals, while several experienced players, including Bafana Bafana internationals, were left on the bench.

Lupopo took full advantage, winning the home match 3-0 and building the confidence that ultimately carried them through the tie. Their midfielder Dieumerci Mukoko appeared to relish the psychological battle during the return fixture at Orlando Stadium, using gestures to project dominance and bullying Pirates players both on and off the ball.

Pirates will need to approach every opponent with the same intensity, regardless of reputation or perceived quality.

Find reliable cover for Sipho Chaine

Sipho Chaine was central to Pirates’ success last season, making 42 appearances in all competitions and missing only one of their CAF Champions League matches.

His performances helped the club secure a domestic treble comprising the Betway Premiership, MTN8 and Carling Knockout. However, the departure of Melusi Buthelezi has left Chaine as the only established goalkeeper at the club.

That creates a significant vulnerability. An injury or suspension could force Pirates to rely on inexperienced alternatives at the highest level of continental football. The club must resolve that lack of depth before circumstances make it necessary to introduce new goalkeeping options under pressure.

Maintain depth through a demanding campaign

Pirates face their toughest season yet, with expectations to retain their domestic trophies while also mounting a serious challenge for the continental title.

Departures and injuries have already left gaps in the squad, requiring Ouaddou to bring new players into the team. Managing the demands of domestic and continental football will test the club’s resources, especially as the number of matches increases.

Competitive squad depth will be essential. Pirates must ensure their players remain fit and capable of producing their best performances throughout the campaign, rather than allowing fatigue to weaken their challenge.

Recognise that every away match is different

African football is often described as difficult to negotiate, but Pirates must avoid treating every continental fixture as if it presents the same problem.

Opponents vary in style, while the circumstances surrounding individual results can change from one match to another. Understanding those differences will be crucial, particularly when Pirates are playing away from home.

The central lesson is straightforward: victory, especially on the road, is the most dependable way to progress through continental competition.

Build resilience in hostile conditions

Although football across the continent has developed, away environments can still be demanding because of tactical approaches, local hospitality and passionate home supporters.

Pirates cannot afford to lose their composure when those pressures increase. They must confront the conditions directly and develop the mentality required to remain competitive away from home.

That resilience could strengthen the squad physically and mentally, while also providing the determination needed to overcome obstacles where results are decided: on the pitch.