The Citizen (Gauteng)

Pirates ‘have what it takes’

- Tshepo Ntsoelengo­e

Former Orlando Pirates striker James Mothibi thinks that it might just be the Buccaneers’ year to lift Caf Confederat­ion Cup after they qualified for the quarterfin­als on Sunday with a game to spare.

The Buccaneers went through after beating Algerian side JS Saoura 2-0 in Algiers, having beaten them by the same scoreline in the home Group B encounter.

Goals by Ntsikelelo Nyauza and Kabelo Dlamini paved the way for the Buccaneers, as they gave the Algerians a difficult time despite playing away from home and despite Goodman Mosele picking up a red card.

With the knockout stages now being reached, this gives the club and their fans something to smile about.

“I think every Pirates fan now believes the club can go all the way to win the tittle,” said Mothibi.

“We have to applaud them. They have been very consistent in the Confederat­ion Cup and it says something about the team. I’m sure every Pirates fan thinks the team can go all the way to lift the trophy, it can happen.

“Anything is possible in this competitio­n and we really need to applaud the guys for the effort and commitment displayed.”

“Pirates has the squad to compete and counted among the best clubs in the continent. We have the players, we have the technical team and they have the support from management. So, we shouldn’t really be surprised by their achievemen­t.”

The Buccaneers reached the last eight last season, only to be knocked out by Raja Casablanca.

Mothibi thinks Pirates are more experience­d now and consistenc­y in the line-up and good spirit could help them win the trophy.

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