Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Manqoba Mngqithi has commended Orlando Pirates for successfully advancing to the group stages of the CAF Champions League, stating that this achievement enhances South Africa’s chances of securing the prestigious title.
The Pirates clinched their spot with a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Jwaneng Galaxy at Orlando Stadium, thanks to a late goal from Monnapule Saleng.
Mngqithi’s praise comes on the heels of Sundowns’ impressive 4-0 win over Mbabane Swallows, which resulted in an 8-0 aggregate victory and secured their own place in the group stages.
He emphasized that having both Sundowns and Pirates competing significantly increases the prospects of a South African club winning the CAF Champions League this season. Sundowns last claimed the title in 2016, while Pirates were the first South African team to do so in 1996.
Reflecting on Pirates’ improvement, Mngqithi noted that they were eliminated by Jwaneng Galaxy in the preliminary round last season. In contrast, Sundowns came close to the final, only to be knocked out by Tunisia’s Esperance in the semi-finals.
I must congratulate Pirates; it’s fantastic for a big team like them to reach the group stages. Having two South African teams in the CAF Champions League significantly boosts our chances of winning.
He added, “It would be great if both teams (Pirates and Sundowns) progress to the quarterfinals because once we’re there, anything is possible. If we don’t win, I hope Pirates do. Just like Zamalek and Al Ahly, we want to establish a strong presence in African football.”
Mngqithi expressed excitement for Pirates’ advancement and pride in Sundowns’ qualification for the group stages, stating, “It’s important that we not only dominate but also represent well in the SADC region.”
Breakdown of Qualified Teams:
- Pot 1: Al Ahly (Egypt), Esperance de Tunis (Tunisia), Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa), TP Mazembe (DR Congo).
- Pot 2: CR Belouizdad (Algeria), Raja Athletic Club (Morocco), Young Africans (Tanzania), Pyramids FC (Egypt).
- Pot 3: Al Hilal (South Sudan), Orlando Pirates (South Africa), Sagrada Esperanca (Angola), AS FAR (Morocco).
- Pot 4: MC Alger (Algeria), Djoliba (Mali), Maniema Union (DR Congo), Stade d’Abidjan (Ivory Coast).
As the tournament progresses, fans will eagerly anticipate how these South African clubs perform on the continental stage.
