Ncikazi: Pyramids Will Give Us A Tough Game

Orlando Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi is confident that the Buccaneers will go through the final, even though Pyramids will give them a tough game.

The 2024 MTN8 champions are set to face the Egyptian giant Pyramids in the semi-final first leg of the CAF Champions League at FNB Stadium on Saturday [18:00].

The Buccaneers knocked out MC Alger to book themselves a ticket to the semi-final of this competition. Pyramids, on the other hand, won against the Moroccan giant AS FAR to reach the semi-final as well.

Speaking ahead of this game, Ncikazi revealed that Pyramids will give the Buccaneers a very tough game, but will try by all means to win it.

“We are in a stage where the opponents are all difficult to approach,” Ncikazi said.

“Pyramids are the high scorers in the Champions League, but we are playing at home and we want to continue with our journey and try to get to the final.

“We are going to try and play, and win the match like we normally do. It will not be an easy match, but it’s possible even though they are a strong team in the tournament.”

This will be the first meeting between Pirates and Pyramids in the CAF competitions. However, the Buccaneers have previously faced two Egyptian giants, Al Ahly and Zamalek.

Ncikazi’s side has a big advantage ahead of this game as they remain the only unbeaten team in the competition this season.

Besides that, Pirates at home against Egyptian teams in both the Champions League and Confederation Cup have played six games, winning two, drawing three times, and losing just once.

The return leg between these two sides will be at the 30 June Stadium in Egypt next weekend. The winner will reach the final against whoever wins between Al Ahly and Mamelodi Sundowns.