sportskeeda
Marcel Koller, the head coach of Al Ahly, recognizes that Orlando Pirates is a strong opponent with numerous talented players who will present a notable challenge to the Red Devils.
This Saturday, the Red Devils will clash with the Buccaneers in their second CAF Champions League match, set to unfold at Orlando Stadium in Soweto.
Both teams secured victories in their opening games in Group C. The previous matchup between Al Ahly and the Buccaneers occurred during the 2015 CAF Confederation Cup Semi-finals, where the Red Devils faced a 4-3 defeat at home.
Koller believes that the Pirates possess a robust lineup filled with proficient players. He noted that specific members of the Pirates squad could create issues but opted not to disclose their names.
“We are facing a formidable opponent with several talented players, but I would rather not specify who I think may challenge us,” Koller stated ahead of the match against Orlando Pirates.
“We have assessed these players [whom we consider potential threats], and our team is ready to rise to the challenge. We will finalize our strategy concerning these players today [Friday afternoon] and tomorrow [Saturday] before the match.”
As it stands, the Red Devils occupy the top position in their group, while the Buccaneers follow closely in second place, with both teams earning three points, separated only by goal difference.
Al Ahly won their opening match 4-2, while Pirates claimed a 2-1 victory in theirs. Following this encounter, Koller’s side will compete against ENPPI in the Egyptian League Cup on Tuesday, December 10. Meanwhile, the Orlando Pirates had their match against Golden Arrows postponed and will next take on Stade d’Abidjan away in the Champions League on Saturday, December 14.
