Orlando Pirates will resume their CAF Champions League campaign with a two-legged final preliminary round clash against Saint-Eloi Lupopo of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The Buccaneers advanced to this round after a convincing 7-0 aggregate win over Lioli of Lesotho, while Lupopo scrapped through with a 1-0 victory over Sudan’s Al-Merrikh.
Because of his experience in the DRC (he previously coached AS Vita Club), Pirates are relying on coach Abdeslam Ouaddou for insight into the opposition.
Ahead of the match, Ouaddou expressed gratitude to the club’s management for believing in him — and said he’s determined to repay that faith by pushing deep in the Champions League.
“I just trust the work that I am doing, the values that I’m putting in my work, the love that I’m putting in my job, the love that I’m putting on my players. And … what is important as well is the trust — the trust of my club … because without trust … it’s difficult. So, I thank them for that, for the trust.”
On the injury front, Relebohile Mofokeng remains doubtful for the trip to Lubumbashi after picking up an injury during Pirates’ victory over Siwelele FC in the Carling Knockout Round of 16. As a result, he missed Bafana Bafana’s World Cup qualifying matches.
Lupopo’s former coach, Luc Eymael — who led the club in 2023/24 — warned that Pirates should expect a hostile environment in the DRC. He pointed to the artificial pitch, packed stadium, and energetic home support as factors that may work in Lupopo’s favour.
The winner of the Pirates vs Lupopo tie will qualify for the group stage of the CAF Champions League.