Exclusive: Edward Motale Says Orlando Pirates Wasted a Glorious Opportunity in Soweto
- Orlando Pirates legend Edward Motale says his former teammates have to blame themselves for the draw against Raja Casablanca last weekend
- Pirates are out of the country to face Raja in the CAF Confederation Cup in Morocco and Motale argues they have to fight to get a win to reach the semi-finals
- As Pirates want a victory at all costs, Motale believes coach Josef Zinnbauer is aware of what strategy and players he should employ to reach the next stage
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Orlando Pirates are under pressure to get a favourable result against Raja Casablanca in their CAF Confederation Cup on Sunday. According to former captain Edward Motale, the Buccaneers rued a glorious opportunity to beat the Moroccan giants at home last weekend.
Coach Josef Zinnbauer drew 1-1 at Orlando Stadium in the opening leg and for them to reach the semi-finals, they have to clinch a high-scoring draw or secure a win.
According to ‘Magents’, Pirates still have a chance but he says they must not only focus on getting a stalemate but push for a convincing victory.
Source: Twitter
Speaking exclusively to Briefly News, the former Bafana Bafana defender says the German coach is fully aware of what he should do in terms of player selection and strategy. Motale explained:
“I think Pirates made it difficult for them. I was expecting a win here at home but I have a feeling they will reach the semis. The only thing they need now is a draw but they must score at leats two goals to reach the next stage or a 1-0 win. The easiest way or strategy in these competitions is to win at home and Pirates didn’t use that chance.
“If I was the coach, I wouldn’t even mention a draw, they just have to go for a kill. I think Zinnbauer is aware of what must be done and I am confident he will come up with a strong line-up.”
With Pirates having bagged the MTN trophy and out of the DStv Premiership title race, Motale says reaching the semi-finals would definitely restore pride in the hard-to-please fans. He added:
“The DStv Premiership is out of the picture now and this is another big chance to win silverware. It’s going to be difficult out there but it’s possible to beat Raja.
“Pirates have experienced players that can lead the club to a favourable result there. If they win this one, they will be a different team, as individuals and the fans will be proud.
“I think the only wish for South Africans now is to see all the three clubs doing well and reaching the finals. That will lift the standard of the league and the players, thus benefiting the national team.”
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The 1995 CAF Champions League and 1996 African Cup of Nations winning defender has a final word to the likes of Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns. Continued the legend:
“Generally, all the football lovers are waiting to see the big three representing Mzansi in the finals. Chiefs have a big chance, Sundowns and Pirates are the ones that are really doubtful but we still have faith in them.
“I am just saying we need to wish them luck and support the three clubs going to these games this weekend. These teams are the pride of the nation.”
Source: Twitter
Looking at other sports stories, Briefly News reported that Al Ahly have arrived in South Africa on Tuesday ahead of their eagerly anticipated CAF Champions League clash against Sundowns on Saturday afternoon.
The Red Devils of Egypt touched down at OR Tambo International Airport and have confirmed their arrival via a post on Twitter.
Ahly are enjoying a comfortable 2-0 lead, a result they secured in last week’s first leg clash at home in Cairo.
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Source: Briefly News
