Innocent Mayoyo Stresses CAF Champions League Importance for Orlando Pirates

Orlando Pirates legend Innocent Mayoyo has emphasized that a strong showing in the CAF Champions League is essential for closing the gap between the Buccaneers and Mamelodi Sundowns.

The Soweto giants are preparing to take on MC Alger in Algeria on Tuesday in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals, a crucial encounter that could define their continental ambitions.

Mayoyo believes that Pirates’ international players, including Patrick Maswanganyi, Deon Hotto, Thalente Mbatha, Relebohile Mofokeng, and Evidence Makgopa, must step up to ensure the team progresses beyond the final eight.

“What’s happening with Pirates now is still part of the process of bridging the gap between them and Sundowns,” Mayoyo told KickOff. “For Pirates to reach Sundowns’ level, they need to embark on this journey in continental football. This is still a process, and to expedite it, Pirates must perform well.”

Despite the urgency to succeed, Mayoyo cautioned that failure this season should not be seen as the end of the journey.

“However, not succeeding in this season’s Champions League doesn’t mean they are out of the process. They should not be too hard on themselves. Look at Sundowns; despite their resources, when was the last time they won the Champions League?”

Consistency in reaching the latter stages of the tournament is crucial, according to Mayoyo, who believes that Pirates have been steadily building towards continental success.

“I hope we perform well given our current form; these results are a reflection of Pirates preparing well in pre-season over the past two years. We are now ready to start competing for continental honors. In this situation, you need experienced players and should not rely too heavily on the younger ones.”

Mayoyo also highlighted the importance of key players stepping up, particularly in a high-stakes away match in Algeria.

“The international players need to perform well in Algeria tomorrow. Additionally, in terms of maturity, Relebohile Mofokeng is also one of our trump cards.”

With a strong performance in the quarter-finals, Pirates have the chance to further establish themselves among the continent’s elite and move closer to bridging the gap with their dominant domestic rivals, Mamelodi Sundowns.