Orlando Pirates defender Nkosinathi Sibisi has highlighted the significance of taking part in continental clashes with their much-anticipated blockbuster encounter against Egyptian giants Al Ahly on the horizon. 

The Soweto giants will host the reigning and record 12-time African champions at Orlando Stadium on Saturday as they look to secure their second win in group C after overcoming Algerian giants CR Belouizdad away from home in matchday one. 

While Jose Riveiro’s side will be aiming to bounce back from their 1-0 loss to Stellenbosch FC in the league last weekend, they have often been able to get over the line without several key players in defense this season 

“I think it’s the understanding we have as a group regardless of who’s playing, we understand our role as players and how we have to carry them because our coach is very clear,” said Sibisi when asked how are they able to grind results with an altered back four. 

“There’s no in-between [with Riveiro], so it makes everyone’s job easier, to get on with the job and we’ve had changes here and there in the back four but we’re still able to get the job done.”  

Sibisi, who found himself utilized as a squad player at the beginning of the season, went on to reveal how he maintained professionalism during that period as he is now a regular starter since Olisa Ndah suffered an injury setback in September. 

“For me, it’s all about working and waiting for a chance because the guys that are playing are doing the job so you can’t sulk, we have to keep going. Fortunately for me, I have the support from back at home, ” said the Bucs center-back. 

“They are always encouraging me to keep going, so that’s where I drew my strength from so I was able to keep level-headed and keep working to fight for my position.”

The Bafana international captained Pirates to a 2-1 victory in Algiers in what was his second CAF Champions League appearance of the 2024/25 campaign and has pinpointed how Africa’s elite club competition has benefited the club and players. 

“It helps a lot playing in such competitions because you can see where you are as a player, where you need to improve. I think there’s no higher level than that in African football, so it’s helping us, not me as an individual but the whole group, ” acknowledged Sibisi. 

“Because of the experience, you know what to expect when you’re playing away from home. There’s positivity amongst the group at the club and country level, there’s unity and harmony and I think the results speak for themselves.”