Orlando Pirates will face a challenging test this weekend when they travel to the Democratic Republic of Congo to take on Saint Eloi Lupopo in the CAF Champions League second preliminary round....Click to Read More >>➤
The first leg will be played this Sunday at the Frédéric Kibassa Maliba Stadium in Lubumbashi, where Pirates will aim for a positive result to strengthen their chances ahead of the return leg in South Africa. A win or even a draw would put Abdeslam Ouaddou’s side in a favorable position to advance.
The Buccaneers enter this clash with confidence after an emphatic 7–0 aggregate victory over Lioli in the previous round. However, the Congolese side promises to pose a much tougher challenge — one that could test the South African club’s composure and adaptability in difficult conditions.
Eymael Warns Pirates of Tough Conditions
Former Saint Eloi Lupopo coach and current Chippa United manager Luc Eymael has cautioned Pirates about the tricky conditions they will encounter in Lubumbashi. The Belgian mentor, who led Lupopo during the 2024/25 season, said his former side’s home advantage could prove decisive.
“First of all, we qualified Lupopo for the Champions League,” Eymael told Soccer Laduma. “If I’m right, the first game will be in Lupopo, and it will not be easy for Pirates to go there and get a positive result. The stadium will be full, and the fans will be the 13th man. Also, it’s an artificial pitch, and the environment will be a bit hostile for Pirates but very positive for Lupopo.”
Eymael added that the Congolese supporters are known for creating an intimidating atmosphere that often unsettles visiting teams. “It’s not just the fans. The pitch, the noise, and the passion — all of that makes it a difficult place to play. Pirates will feel it. Lupopo have also made some changes since I left, both tactically and in terms of personnel,” he explained.
Tough Task for the Sea Robbers
The trip to the DRC will test the Buccaneers’ resilience, as playing on artificial turf presents a very different challenge compared to the natural grass surfaces they are used to in the DStv Premiership.
Historically, Orlando Pirates have endured mixed fortunes in the CAF Champions League. Just two years ago, they suffered a disappointing early exit after losing to Jwaneng Galaxy in the preliminary round. This time, however, Ouaddou’s squad will be determined to go further in the competition and re-establish their continental dominance.
The fixture in Lubumbashi is expected to draw a packed crowd, with local fans known for their passionate support of Lupopo. For Pirates, keeping their composure under pressure — both on and off the pitch — will be crucial to securing a positive result before returning home for the decisive second leg.
Whether the Buccaneers can overcome the artificial surface, the intense atmosphere, and a rejuvenated Lupopo side remains to be seen — but one thing is certain: Sunday’s clash in the DRC will be a true test of character for Orlando Pirates. ...Click to Read More >>➤
