Former Orlando Pirates Star Tlou Segolela Sounds a Warning to Africa Ahead of CAF Semi-Finals
A former Orlando Pirates star, Tlou Segolela, who featured in the 2013 CAF Champions League final against Al Ahly, has issued a powerful warning to the rest of Africa as the continent’s inter-club semi-finals approach.
This year marks a significant milestone for South African football, with all three clubs—Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, and Stellenbosch FC—reaching the semi-finals of their respective CAF tournaments, the Champions League and the Confederation Cup. This achievement follows a string of successes in the group stages, signaling a shift in the South African game that has captured the attention of the continent.
South African Football on the Rise
Segolela, who played a crucial role in Pirates’ historic 2013 Champions League run, believes that the rise of South African teams in African club football is no coincidence. He points to a “new rhythm” that has been introduced, both at the club and national team levels, which is setting the pace for the rest of Africa.
“We’ve got another rhythm that the African nations are not ready for,” declared Segolela, highlighting the improvements in South African football. He credited Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos for instilling a sense of discipline and focus in the national team, contributing to their success. South Africa has qualified for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco and is on the brink of securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“In the past, it was all about flair and style, but now South African teams know how to play for results,” Segolela added. “You can see it in Sundowns under Rulani Mokwena, they know how to get results, even if they don’t always play the most flamboyant football.”
The South African Clubs’ CAF Semi-Final Matchups
South African teams have been making waves in the CAF tournaments, with Stellenbosch FC progressing to the Confederation Cup semi-finals after a 1-0 victory over Zamalek. They will now face Tanzanian giants Simba, while Sundowns and Pirates have tough battles ahead against Egyptian heavyweights Al Ahly and Pyramids FC in the Champions League semi-finals.
Segolela believes that all three South African clubs have what it takes to reach the finals, noting that the key is playing to win. “South African teams can reach both finals. Even Stellenbosch. At this stage, it’s all about playing to win,” he said.
Al Ahly and the Mental Game
While Segolela is optimistic about South Africa’s chances, he acknowledges the threat posed by experienced sides like Al Ahly, who are renowned for their mental strength in crucial stages of the competition. He emphasized the importance of resilience and preparation when it comes to navigating the Champions League semi-finals.
“In the semi-finals, it’s all about mental strength,” Segolela explained. “You should be willing to dig deep. Avoid one-on-ones against our keepers at all costs.”
Segolela’s words are a reminder that success in the African club tournaments requires more than just talent—it takes a combination of physical preparedness, tactical awareness, and, perhaps most importantly, mental fortitude.
South African Football’s Bright Future
According to Segolela, South African football’s rise has been a long time in the making. “Everything is going our way in football, and it’s not an overnight thing. This was planned a long time ago through hard work,” he concluded.
As the semi-finals approach, all eyes will be on Sundowns, Pirates, and Stellenbosch, with the hope that South African football’s newfound rhythm will continue to carry them through to the continental finals. Whether they can overcome the giants of African football remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: South Africa is firmly back in the mix, and the rest of Africa is on notice.
