Makola hopes Orlando Pirates can claim second CAF Champions League star

Former Orlando Pirates midfielder Mpho Makola believes the Soweto club have the potential to reach the knockout stages of the CAF Champions League and is hopeful they can secure a second continental title.

Pirates return to Africa’s premier club competition this season alongside Mamelodi Sundowns, having suffered an early exit last term. Their previous campaign ended in the second preliminary round after they lost to Saint-Eloi Lupopo in a penalty shootout.

The club have been handed a first-round tie against La Cure Waves of Mauritius, with Abdeslam Ouaddou’s side expected to make a stronger impression in this year’s competition.

Makola, who was part of the Pirates team that reached the 2013 CAF Champions League final, has welcomed the quality of the club’s new signings. However, he believes it is too soon to make firm predictions about whether they can retain their PSL title or go all the way in Africa.

“Although it is still early, I believe Pirates have made some reputable signings. However, I cannot confidently say they will defend their PSL title or win the Champions League,” says Mpho Makola, speaking to KickOff.

The former Pirates player also pointed to the uncertainty surrounding the side’s early-season line-ups. The team’s opening two matches have featured different combinations as the coach continues to assess his options.

“The two matches they have played this season have shown different dynamics, as the coach is still experimenting with different combinations.

“To succeed in the Champions League, you need experienced players.

“I am entirely confident they will reach the knockout stages. My hope is for Pirates to win their second star, similar to Sundowns.

“Nonetheless, it is fair to say that their upcoming five fixtures will provide clearer insight into their trajectory,” he adds.

Makola’s reference to a second star reflects Pirates’ ambition to add another CAF Champions League triumph to their history, matching the continental success achieved by Sundowns.

For now, domestic matters are the immediate priority. Pirates face AmaZulu FC in the Betway Premiership at Kings Park Stadium on Wednesday, with kick-off scheduled for 19:00.

A victory would move Pirates to the top of the standings, while the match will also offer another early indication of how Ouaddou’s team is developing before their Champions League campaign gathers pace. Their next five fixtures are expected to provide a clearer picture of the club’s direction in both domestic and continental football.

Makola’s assessment is therefore positive but measured: he sees enough quality in the squad to believe Pirates can progress beyond the group-stage phase, while acknowledging that the side still needs time to settle on its best combinations and demonstrate the experience required to challenge successfully in Africa.