JOHANNESBURG - Orlando Pirates are just 90 minutes away from securing their place in the group stage of the CAF Champions League.
The Buccaneers return to home soil with a slender 1-nil advantage after beating Namibian champions African Stars in the first leg.
But with their continental ambitions on the line, Pirates know there is little room for complacency.
The Soweto giants were left disappointed last season after failing to progress to the group stages, and this time around, they are determined not to stumble at the final hurdle.
READ | Pirates confirm Ncikazi exit as Golden Arrows comes calling
“I see that this season Orlando Pirates is a giant in Africa," Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou said.
"The fans, the partners, the stakeholders, the club is waiting for us to come back in this big competition. Our players are ready. Our players know the target we have to reach tomorrow."
Defender Tapelo Xoki says last season’s disappointment has provided valuable lessons, with the squad fully focused on getting the job done in this decisive encounter.
“For us, we put all our energy and focus on tomorrow’s game. It’s a big game for the club. We want to take the club to the group stages. We learnt from our lessons from last season. We have a lead, but we are playing at home. For us, it’s all about the energy tomorrow, getting through.”
READ MORE | Nkota returns to Pirates from Al-Ettifaq
Despite holding the aggregate advantage, Pirates expect a difficult challenge against an African Stars side that could adopt a defensive approach in an attempt to frustrate the hosts.
Ouaddou has stressed the importance of patience and intelligent movement as his team looks to break down the opposition.
The Buccaneers’ quest for a second continental star remains alive, but only a disciplined and composed performance will ensure their CAF Champions League ambitions stay on track.