Orlando Pirates will kick off their CAF Champions League campaign next weekend hoping to go further this time around.
The Buccaneers will face Mauritian side La Cure Waves in a two-legged first preliminary-round tie. Should they progress as expected, they will advance to the second preliminary round, a stage that has proved to be a stumbling block for Pirates in recent years.
Last season, the Buccaneers were eliminated in the second preliminary round after losing on penalties to Saint Eloi Lupopo.
Here are three reasons why Pirates could struggle in the CAF Champions League this season.
Lack of goals
Pirates have struggled to get consistent goals from their strikers this season.
Yanela Mbuthuma, who has been the preferred first-choice striker, is yet to find the back of the net this campaign. Against Sekhukhune United, head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou opted to start Boitumelo Radiopane, who responded by scoring his first goal of the season.
The Buccaneers cannot afford to rely solely on their midfielders and wingers for goals, particularly in difficult away matches across Africa.
If their strikers continue to struggle in front of goal, Pirates could find themselves under pressure in tight CAF Champions League encounters.
Injuries
Pirates have already been hit by injuries to key players in important positions.
The absence of Sihle Nduli and Thalente Mbatha weakens the midfield, while Evidence Makgopa’s injury could also be felt in attack.
The Champions League brings additional demands, with long-distance travel and a demanding schedule potentially testing the squad’s depth.
Should Pirates suffer more injuries during the campaign, Ouaddou could be forced to rely heavily on inexperienced players or make frequent changes to his starting XI.
Pirates looking to reach CAF CL group stages
Poor defending from set-pieces
Another concern for Pirates has been their vulnerability when defending corners and other set-piece situations.
In African competitions, set-pieces can be decisive, particularly in matches where chances from open play are limited.
Pirates will need to improve their organisation and concentration when defending dead-ball situations, otherwise they could find themselves conceding avoidable goals.
A lapse from a corner or free-kick could prove costly over two legs and ultimately lead to elimination.
With the stakes increasing as the competition progresses, Pirates will need to address all three areas if they are to avoid another early CAF Champions League exit.
