Orlando Pirates will face La Cure Waves SC of Port Louis in the first qualifying round of this season’s CAF Champions League, with the Buccaneers travelling to Mauritius for the first leg.
The two-legged tie is widely expected to be a straightforward assignment for the reigning PSL champions, and former Mauritius international Jean-Marc Ithier believes Pirates should have too much quality for their opponents.
“Pirates are a step ahead as champions of the PSL, so they will be too much for La Cure Waves. That’s for sure,” Ithier told KickOff.
“Football in Mauritius doesn’t compare to the PSL at all and has dropped in recent years, and I don’t know when it will improve again.”
Orlando Pirates have unfinished business in CAF
Ithier also revealed a major difference between the two sides, claiming that many of La Cure Waves’ players have full-time jobs and play football on an amateur basis.
“All the local players have day jobs in Mauritius, and they play football as a hobby.
“So, that is why I say Pirates will be favoured to proceed because they will be up against largely amateur opponents,” he added.
On paper, Pirates appear to be overwhelming favourites to progress to the next round however, the Buccaneers will be wary of taking the tie lightly given their recent struggles in the CAF Champions League.
Pirates have regularly negotiated the opening qualifying round but have found the next stage far more challenging. In their last six Champions League campaigns, the Sea Robbers have been eliminated in the preliminary rounds on four occasions.
While La Cure Waves may not possess the experience or resources of the South African champions, Pirates will know that a professional approach over both legs will be essential if they are to avoid another early continental disappointment.
Orlando Pirates start their CAF CL campaign against La Cure Waves next month.
