Orlando Pirates defender Olisa Ndah says though it hurts to exit the CAF Champions League this season, it has been a blessing in disguise.
Pirates reached the semi-finals of Africa’s premier club competition in the last campaign but were knocked out of this season’s tournament at the preliminary stage. With Pirates’ sole focus being on the domestic front, they have secured the MTN8 and Carling Knockout Cups already and finished the year in first position on the Betway Premiership log with 28 points in 12 matches.
Ndah told Andile Ncube on Sports Night Live that not traveling on the continent has kept the Buccaneers fresh and also helped the side avoid injuries.
“I think it keeps a lot of freshness in the team because you know how CAF is,” said Ndah.
“We are travelling and I remember vividly some games the travel we would be back on a Sunday and maybe we are playing on a Tuesday. So, it caused a lot of fatigue that’s where injuries then would set in. But now I think there is a lot of freshness in the team.
“I think without playing we just focus on the league and the Nedbank Cup so there is not much travelling only within here. I think it keeps us fresh the goal is not as broad as it was because travelling playing CAF and coming to play in the league. Now we are focused on the league the whole time and the Nedbank Cup.”
Meanwhile, Pirates have finished second behind Mamelodi Sundowns twice in the last two seasons. Asked if he believes not participating in the Champions League gives his side an edge over the defending champions, the 27-year-old conceded while adding there is a different belief in the Pirates’ side this time around.
“Yeah of course, obviously they [Sundowns] have a great squad, they have a very good depth, they have a great coach, and they have been there a lot,” added Ndah.
“So, they have done it a lot but this season I think the belief is different. We have always been a family for a long time, but I think the unity in this current team now is massive. So, I think it’s going to push us this season.”
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