Orlando Pirates ready for CAF after winning the MTN8. Image: Orlando Pirates.
(The Post News)- After lifting its fourth consecutive MTN8 title, Orlando Pirates is now turning their attention to bigger ambitions: conquering the continent. The team believes the domestic trophy is just the beginning of what could be a season of multiple successes, with the CAF Champions League firmly in their sights.
The Buccaneers have started to find their rhythm, showing signs of a well-blended unit both on and off the pitch. This growing cohesion has strengthened their belief that they can compete for every trophy available this season and especially make their mark on the continental stage.
Their Champions League campaign begins on Saturday, as they face a first-round preliminary qualifier at Toyota Stadium in the Free State. It’s a tie; they’re widely expected to win, but more importantly, it marks the first step toward their ultimate goal: bringing the prestigious CAF Champions League title back to Soweto for the first time since 1995.
Pirates Aims to Stun the Global Stage
Confidence is running high within the camp. Pirates recently defeated Stellenbosch 3–1 at Mbombela Stadium to clinch the MTN8, proving their ability to rise to the occasion in big matches. However, while domestic trophies are important, the club has made it clear that their ambitions now lie beyond South Africa’s borders.
Among those signings are Bafana Bafana stars Oswin Appollis and Sipho Mbule, who have already contributed to Pirates’ strong start, including the MTN8 title and three straight victories in the Betway Premiership. The squad is beginning to gel, and the hunger for silverware is clear.
But they have shown that their unity extends beyond football. After their 3–0 win over Chippa United, Ouaddou, defender Thapelo Xoki, and goalkeeper coach Tyron Damons heroically stopped to help a person involved in a car accident. Tragically, a vehicle struck the group, resulting in injuries that left some in hospital. Despite coaching the MTN8 final with his arm in a sling and cast, Ouaddou led the team to victory and dedicated the win to his recovering staff and players.
Now, with their domestic success serving as a foundation, Pirates is focusing all their energy on chasing continental silverware. They’re determined not just to repeat last season’s run but to go all the way and finally add a second CAF Champions League trophy to their cabinet.
For South African football, a deep run from Pirates would also be a boost. A confident and competitive team on the African stage could inspire Bafana Bafana ahead of their crucial World Cup qualifiers next month against Zimbabwe and Rwanda and the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals.
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