Orlando Pirates were left frustrated in the opening game of their CAF Champions League campaign after being held to a goalless draw by a stubborn La Cure Waves in Port Louis on Sunday afternoon.
The Buccaneers failed to score against a side whose players largely have full-time jobs away from football, making the result an especially disappointing one for the South African giants.
The draw also raised familiar concerns about Pirates’ ability to break down teams they are expected to beat.
Those problems were evident last season too. The Buccaneers were knocked out of the Nedbank Cup by Casric Stars after failing to score over 120 minutes before eventually losing on penalties.
Orlando Pirates not impressive in CAF
Under new head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, the Buccaneers have made a strong start domestically, but their inability to consistently deal with smaller or more defensive opponents remains a concern.
If Orlando Pirates are serious about winning the CAF Champions League, these are three areas they need to address.
A worrying away record
The 0-0 draw in Mauritius immediately puts pressure on Pirates ahead of the return leg.
If they struggle to win away against La Cure Waves, questions will inevitably be asked about how they will cope with tougher away assignments later in the competition.
Pirates could potentially have to travel to countries such as Algeria, Egypt and Morocco, where the level of opposition will be significantly higher.
Their away record in last season’s Champions League also provides little comfort. The Buccaneers suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat to Saint Eloi Lupopo in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
If Orlando Pirates cannot improve their performances away from home, they could find themselves in trouble before even reaching the group stages.
A lack of quality finishers
Pirates’ problems in front of goal are nothing new. Against La Cure Waves, the Buccaneers created opportunities but lacked the ruthlessness required to turn pressure into goals.
That becomes increasingly dangerous as the competition progresses. Against stronger opponents, Pirates are unlikely to receive several clear chances, meaning the opportunities they do create must be converted.
The arrival of Sebastian Pedersen was expected to provide another option in attack, but one new striker alone may not solve a problem that has affected the club for some time.
If Pirates continue to struggle in front of goal, they could pay a heavy price in the knockout stages.
The creativity void left by Mofokeng
Relebohile Mofokeng’s departure has left Pirates without one of their most naturally creative players.
Against a team sitting deep, creativity becomes crucial. Possession and territorial dominance mean little if a side cannot find the final pass or produce a moment of individual brilliance to unlock a compact defence.
That was one of the frustrations against La Cure Waves.
Orlando Pirates miss Mofokeng
The Sea Robbers may have plenty of attacking players, but replacing Mofokeng’s ability to create something from nothing will not be straightforward.
As the Champions League gets tougher, the Buccaneers will need players capable of breaking down low blocks and producing decisive moments.
If they fail to find that creativity, their Champions League ambitions could come to an early end.
