Orlando Pirates are set to kick off their CAF Champions League campaign against La Cure Waves SC of Port Louis, Mauritius, with the Buccaneers travelling for the first leg next month.
The South African champions enter the tie as clear favourites, with former Mauritius international Jean-Marc Ithier backing Pirates to have too much quality for their opponents.
Ithier believes the gap between the two sides is significant, particularly because many La Cure Waves players reportedly balance football with full-time employment.
“Pirates are a step ahead as champions of the PSL, so they will be too much for La Cure Waves,” Ithier said.
While Pirates boast a fully professional squad and continental experience, La Cure Waves are expected to rely heavily on players who play football alongside their regular careers.
However, the Buccaneers cannot afford to underestimate their opponents. Their recent CAF Champions League record serves as a warning, with Pirates having suffered early exits in several of their last six campaigns.
The mission is simple: get the job done over two legs, avoid complacency and take another step towards continental glory.
After lifting the PSL title, can Orlando Pirates turn their domestic success into CAF Champions League glory and earn a second star?
