Orlando Pirates will seal progress to the Caf Champions League's knockout phase with a win against Khanyisa Mayo's CR Belouizdad on Sunday at the Orlando Stadium.
This is a massive game for the Soweto giants who are hoping to get into the latter stages for the first time since 2013 when they reached the final but fell to Al Ahly.
Belouizdad are aware a loss this weekend might eliminate them from the prestigious continental competition if the defending champions Al Ahly beat Stade d'Abidjan in Ivory Coast in another Group C outing.
Form Guide and Head-to-Head
Orlando Pirates are the only team with no loss in the group, having collected two wins and as many draws. They lead the race for the quarter-final with eight points, one more than Al Ahly who are second.
Belouizdad are third with three points after two wins and as many losses in the group, meaning they can't afford to drop any more points.
In the head-to-head record, Sunday's meeting will be the second in the clubs' history. The initial one was in Algeria and Bucs claimed a 2-1 win.
What They Said
Pirates coach Jose Riveiro concedes it is a new experience but they have adjusted accordingly.
“Now we have to put our minds into the Champions League game. Our obsession is to have as many players available as possible and we are doing a good job in that sense,” the Spaniard stated.
“Like I have explained many times, the schedule this season is a new space for all of us that we are learning to explore and to understand and so far, so good, we cannot complain about that.”
Bafana Bafana striker Khanyisa Mayo couldn't hide his excitement playing on the South African soil once again.
“It’s always exciting to play Orlando Pirates, and this game is a must-win for us,” Mayo exclusively told GOAL.
“They [Pirates] lost their last game, so they’re wounded and will want to bounce back, but we’re ready for them.
“It’s also my first time coming back to play at home since moving to Algeria, which makes it even more special.
“The vibe at Orlando Stadium is always amazing, and we can’t wait to play there and bring back positive results.”
Team News and starting XI
Midfielder Makhehleni Makhaula is set to be recalled into the matchday squad after missing the 1-0 loss against Cape Town City in the Premier Soccer League owing to a one-match suspension. He will be bringing much-needed energy to his department.
Just like the hosts, no player is suspended for the North African outfit. No injuries have been reported meaning the technical team will field the best against the South African heavyweights.
Pirates Probable XI: Chaine, Sibisi, Van Rooyen, Hotto, Makhaula, Dlamini, Maswanganyi, Sesane, Nkota, Mabasa, Mofokeng
Belouizdad Probable XI: Zeghba, Benayada, Keddad, Khacef, Hadded, Benguit, Selmi, Meziane, Mayo, Mahious, Belkhir
Where to Watch
The game will be broadcast live by SuperSport Channel 209 and SABC Sport from 15.00 hours SAT.
