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| Mbesuma Collins |
Pirates hired a charter plane this week to travel to Congo-Brazzaville for their appointment at a city called Dolisie, Leopards’ hometown in southwest part of the country.
The Soweto giants need nothing else but victory in the Denis Sassou Nguesso Stadium to seal a semifinal spot of the moneyed tournament. They currently top Group A with seven points from four matches, while Leopards with four points are still in the running.
Bucs surrendered their unbeaten run in the mini-league stage when they lost 2-1 to Zamalek.
Having done their homework on how to neutralise their opponents, who are also seeking maximum points in a group that can go either way, with Egyptian giants Al Ahly and the White Knights also standing a chance, Pirates must forget about bad hotels and a hostile environment awaiting them.
Aware of the threat that Leopards, who are campaigning in their first Champions League, can pose to them after they held the 1995 winners at home two months ago, coach Roger De Sa says he has a meticulous plan.
“They are physical and dangerous on counterattacks,” he said.
“Because they will be playing at home, they will want to intimidate us and if we let them into the game, they will punish us as their home record is not that bad.
“The important thing is that we are able to score goals and I am expecting my players to do that tomorrow. We are relaxed and looking forward to returning with maximum points.”
Wanting to do it in style despite the pitch described as not so conducive, De Sa will rely on Lucky Lekgwathi, Rooi Mahamutsa, Patrick Phungwayo and Siyabonga Sangweni to be alert at the back.
The enthusiasm and determination of Lehlohonolo Masalesa, and Oupa Manyisa will be key in stopping Prestone Lakolo, Ntela Kalema and dangerous Erick Niemba from probing too much.
The speedy Tlou Segolela, the visionary Daine Klate and the artistry of Sifiso Myeni will be vital in opening up Leopards’ defence that has so far leaked three goals, same as Pirates.
But if there is one player who is likely to silence the 20000 expected crowd and ensure that when Bucs touch down here on Sunday morning beaming with smiles knowing very well that the mission had been accomplished, is Lennox Bacela.
Speedy and strong in both legs, the 31-year-old late bloomer has done well in the competition as he will be looking to add to the two goals he has already scored.
by Patrick Baloyi
Source: thenewage.co.za
Tags : PSL, CAF, 2013 africa champions league, Pirates, bucs, about Orlando Pirates,
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