Former Orlando Pirates assistant coach Tebogo Moloi has issued a bold statement following the club's impressive showings in the CAF Champions League.
The Soweto giants have been a force to be reckoned with in this year's competition, remaining undefeated throughout their campaign.
Alongside Al Hilal and FAR Rabat, they are one of only three teams yet to taste defeat. In eight matches, Pirates have amassed an impressive record of five wins and three draws, scoring 13 goals while conceding only two.
Currently topping Group B with eight points, Pirates have showcased their dominance against a challenging group that includes reigning champions Al Ahly, CR Belouizdad, and Stade d'Abidjan.
The Sea Robbers will face CR Belouizdad at home before concluding their group stage campaign with an away fixture against Al Ahly.
This strong performance has solidified Pirates' position as a serious contender in the competition and sent a clear message to their African rivals.
‘THE MESSAGE HAS BEEN SENT TO AFRICA’
“They need to be prepared for anything thrown at them, be it from parking the bus. They must be in a resilience form to outsmart every opponent against them,” Moloi told FARPost.
“Pirates need to adjust now; they need to adapt as they are one of the competitive teams. They are doing well in Africa, the message has been sent to Africa that Pirates is now back in Africa.
“The current team has rekindled the team in Africa. People should know that Pirates are back in those days when they won the Champions League [in 1995].
“I think the alarm bells have been ringing; they are going to be a difficult team to face. However, it won’t be an easy road for them in the competition.”
