The CAF Confederation Cup is Orlando Pirates' only saving grace to cap off what has been a trophy-less season for the Soweto giants.
Pirates yet to confirm CAF departure details
Furthermore, the CAF competition could be the defining accolade which could swing the pendulum in Eric Tinkler's favour for the permanent coaching role at the Parktown-based club.
Tinkler has made it no secret that he fancies himself at the helm of the Bucs ship in what would be his second stint at the club following Roger de Sa's departure, where the former Bafana Bafana international took over in the interim before Vladimir Vermezovic was appointed.
The Buccaneers have finished the 2014/15 season in an unfavourable fourth spot which means they miss out on both the Champions League and Confederation Cup for next season.
Ezimnyama Ngekani also find themselves without a trophy as they could not successfully defend the Nedbank Cup.
This means the Confed Cup has become somewhat of a holy grail for the club as it is the last chance for silverware as well as entry for next season's Champions League should they clinch it.
For Tinkler, it could swing the top brass's decision in making him the permanent coach.
"Our focus is now on our African campaign in the Confederation Cup. We have to put everything into that and make sure we do well," said a guarded Tinkler to the Siya crew.
CAF Confed Cup Pirates last hope to play in CL
"We played well and fought hard this season, and especially in our last match. This is the spirit we must take into CAF," he added.
