As Orlando Pirates embark on their quest for continental glory in Algiers on Tuesday, they will face the dual challenge of a fiercely competitive host, MC Alger, and a hostile crowd at the historic 80 000-seater 5 July 1962 Stadium.
Last week, Algeria’s Ligue 1 champions sensed the growing excitement around the match and subsequently moved the fixture from their 40 000-seater Ali La Pointe Stadium to the larger venue, located some 18 kilometres away.
The stadium is expected to be near full capacity, amplifying the already vibrant atmosphere created by North African supporters. This will pose a significant challenge for Pirates, who must cope with the intense environment and its potential impact on the game’s dynamics.
It could also prove testing for Sudanese referee Mahmood Ali Mahmood Ismail, who will be supported by an all-North African officiating team.
North African fans are known for their unwavering support, creating an intimidating spectacle with flares and firecrackers. While such displays have long been part of the football culture in the region, CAF have issued a stern warning ahead of the quarter-finals, prohibiting the use of flares during matches. However, some fans at Tuesday’s games may treat CAF’s warning as an April Fool’s joke.
Despite these factors, Pirates are expected to display the same fighting spirit that saw them top Group C against all odds, securing a landmark victory over Egypt’s Al Ahly, Africa’s most successful club. Pirates remained unbeaten in the group stages, with four wins and two draws.
Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has urged caution, despite his team being labelled as favourites. Nonetheless, he is impressed with the hunger and determination his players displayed against Al Ahly.
“I am happy with the level of the players, as there was a great deal of competitiveness from both Pirates and Al Ahly,” said Riveiro.
“I have mentioned the importance of the Al Ahly match. I think it is still too early to judge the favourite.
“We obtained 14 points and did not lose in the group competition. We passed the difficult stages in the group matches. We still have a more difficult stage in the quarter-finals, so it is difficult to judge the result.”
MC Alger finished second in Group A, just one point behind Al Hilal. The Algerian side lost one match, drew three, and won two in their campaign.
Their coach, Khaled Ben Yahia, has urged his team to guard against complacency, warning that a lapse in focus could be costly.
“This match is not like any other. It’s not a simple league match where you can make up for it the following week. It’s a Champions League quarter-final. If you want to make history, it’s now,” said Yahia.
“Get it into your heads that a draw or a defeat would put us in great difficulty before the return to South Africa. We must win this match — whatever the cost! You must be at 200% from the first minute to the final whistle. It’s not a question of talent; it’s a question of determination, mental strength, and the will to win.
“We can’t waste our chances!
"In the Champions League, if we want to go far, we must be realistic. When an opportunity presents itself, we have to seize it, we must score.
"There won’t be 10 chances — there might be three or four. So, I want every shot, every header, every dangerous situation to be fully exploited. Be killers in front of goal.”