Orlando Pirates can reclaim African crown, says former captain Edward Motale

Former Orlando Pirates captain Edward Motale believes the South African club have the quality to win the CAF Champions League this season and secure a second title.

Motale, who captained Pirates to their maiden Champions League triumph in 1995, said he was confident the current squad could match the achievement of that generation.

“I would love to see Orlando Pirates win the second star,” said Motale, who was affectionately known as Magents.

Pirates will begin their Champions League group-stage campaign with an away match against Tanzanian club Simba towards the end of November.

They have been drawn in Group C with Simba, Moroccan side RS Berkane and Cameroonian outfit Colombe Sportive.

Pirates have been unable to repeat their success since lifting the title more than three decades ago. The club have, however, remained competitive in the competition, reaching the semi-finals and quarter-finals in subsequent campaigns.

“They’ve been promising, lost in the semi-finals and quarterfinals (over the years), but I think they’ve got it now. They’ve got a good mix of youngsters and experience,” Motale added.

Khoza brothers bring fresh energy

Motale also credited the influence of Mpumi and Nkosana, the sons of Orlando Pirates chairman Dr. Irvin Khoza, with helping to reinvigorate the Soweto club.

He said their involvement had brought new ideas and energy to the Pirates camp, particularly in the way the club approached recruitment.

“So, what makes Pirates tick now is the introduction of the small chairpersons! They came with new innovations and the right ideas. Even when they acquire services (of players), they don’t just go for someone who’s available but replace quality with quality,” Motale said.

The club’s immediate priority is the Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs on Saturday afternoon.

Pirates will then turn their attention to their continental campaign, with their opening Group C fixture against Simba providing the first test of their hopes of winning the CAF Champions League for a second time.