Orlando Pirates Land in Cairo with Eyes Set on CAF Champions League Final

Orlando Pirates have touched down in Cairo, Egypt, for what will be their fourth venture into North African territory this season, determined to extend their unbeaten run in the CAF Champions League and book a place in the final. The Buccaneers are set to take on Pyramids FC at the 30 June Stadium on Friday night, just over 48 hours from now, in the second leg of their semi-final tie.

Although they would have preferred to carry a lead from the first leg, Pirates were forced to settle for a goalless draw at FNB Stadium last Saturday. Yet, the result leaves the door wide open for progression, with any scoring draw in Cairo enough to see the Soweto giants advance to the final thanks to the away goals rule, which is still enforced by CAF in two-legged knockout ties.

Should the second leg also end 0-0, the game will be decided via a penalty shootout. But a win or even a scoring draw will be enough for Pirates, giving them a slight cushion going into enemy territory.

Coach Jose Riveiro will be banking on his side’s impressive form on North African soil this season. Pirates have triumphed in all three of their previous away matches in the region, beginning with a 2-1 win over CR Belouizdad in Algiers in November. That was followed by a 2-1 victory against Al Ahly in Cairo, and most recently, a 1-0 win against MC Alger on April 1 in a tough atmosphere.

This time around, Pirates could benefit from a less hostile environment, as Pyramids FC are not known for a massive home following—unlike some of the other North African heavyweights.

Adding to their confidence, the Buccaneers remain the only unbeaten team in this season’s competition, boasting eight wins and five draws across 13 matches, including four goalless encounters.

Riveiro, who is also guiding his team through a demanding domestic campaign in both the Betway Premiership and the Nedbank Cup, believes this continental journey has been a testament to the squad’s growth and resilience.

“We took this continental test to understand where we are as a group,” Riveiro said. “I think we managed to go through 13 games in that competition, solid and conceding only four goals, so it says quite a lot about how competitive we were at that level.

“We are trying to use that confidence for the rest of the competitions as well. So far, in the Nedbank, it was the same approach—play every game like a final.”

Reflecting on past lessons, Riveiro added, “There was a time when we got knocked out in the first round of one competition. That game helped us understand that if you’re not good enough on the day, then the competition is over for you. Winning is also helpful to get fresh as soon as possible, and we are trying to get the energy from every result.”

As the countdown to the all-important clash ticks away, Pirates fans will be hoping their team continues to thrive in North Africa—and takes one massive step closer to continental glory.