Pirates tipped to win PSL & CAF Champions League – ‘Bucs are on another level now’

Soweto giants Orlando Pirates have been tipped to win both the CAF Champions League and the Premier Soccer League.

Domestically, the Sea Robbers recently defended their MTN8 title, becoming the only team in the history of the club to win it four times in a row. Despite losing their opening two league games, the Buccaneers have bounced back with four consecutive wins.

Last weekend, they grabbed their ticket for the second preliminary round of the CAF Champions League after a 7-0 aggregate win over Lioli. Club legend Albert Mahlangu believes the quality is there for Bucs to go all the way.

Ouaddou will excel in these competitions

“We are on another level right now. We've continued from where we left off last season, and the coach is still working on putting together his ideal team,” the former striker said in his recent interview with KickOff.

“The squad rotation strategy is effective as the coach discovers the best combinations of players. He is figuring out who plays well together.

“I believe Abdeslam Ouaddou will excel in these competitions. Who would have thought that Jose Riveiro would perform so well in both the league and the Champions League?”

‘Everyone should step up'

“In today’s football, names don’t matter; hard work and teamwork are what count. It’s important that we don’t rely on just one player,” Mahlangu continued.

“Everyone should step up their game. For instance, at Orlando Pirates, everyone is contributing goals. I'm pleased that we are not depending on a single player for our scoring.

“To be honest, Orlando Pirates must win the league this season [Betway Premiership] and also secure the second star [CAF Champions League]. I don’t see anything hindering Pirates in this campaign,” he concluded.