After bowing out of the CAF Champions League this past weekend, Orlando Pirates will be eager to deliver a quick response when they face Magesi FC in the quarter-finals of the Carling Knockout Cup on Tuesday evening.
The Buccaneers have already lifted silverware this season, having claimed the MTN8 title in September with a dominant 3-0 victory over Stellenbosch FC in the final.
Despite a slow start to their Betway Premiership campaign, losing their opening two matches, Abdeslam Ouaddou’s side have bounced back impressively to climb to third place on the log. They currently sit just three points behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns and have games in hand over their rivals.
CAF exit a major setback for Pirates
Over the weekend, Pirates were knocked out of the CAF Champions League in heartbreaking fashion, losing 5-4 on penalties to Saint-Éloi Lupopo.
After suffering a 3-0 defeat in the first leg away in DR Congo, the Soweto giants produced a spirited fightback at Orlando Stadium, winning 3-0 to level the tie before ultimately falling short in the shootout.
An early exit at the second preliminary round marks a disappointing outcome for the Buccaneers, especially after reaching the semi-finals of the same competition last season.
Focus shifts to domestic competitions
Now, Pirates must quickly regroup as they turn their attention to the Carling Knockout Cup. Their opponents, reigning champions Magesi FC, are no strangers to upsetting big teams, having eliminated Pirates from the same competition last year.
Ouaddou’s men will need to draw on their experience and mental strength to avoid another early exit. With the Betway Premiership title still within reach, the Buccaneers must use this setback as motivation to refocus, regain momentum, and continue their pursuit of domestic glory.
Pirates have only the league, Carling KO and Nedbank Cup to play for this season.
