Orlando Pirates could ring in a few changes to their starting line-up as they gear up for a crucial second leg encounter against Pyramids FC in the CAF Champions League semi-final, the Siya crew has learnt.
The Buccaneers head to Egypt with their sights firmly set on securing a place in the final while maintaining their unbeaten run in the tournament.
Read: Eastern Cape Wonderkid Attracting Chiefs
Last Saturday, the Soweto giants played out a goalless draw against the Egyptian outfit at the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg.
While Pirates managed to create a few scoring opportunities, many felt the team didn’t quite reach the high-performance standards expected under coach Jose Riveiro.
Despite the missed chances, Pirates held firm at the back, ensuring they kept a clean sheet and avoided conceding the all-important away goal.
Aiding their cause were two crucial interventions from the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), which ruled out goals scored by Pyramids, keeping the tie delicately poised at 0-0.
Sources close to the Pirates camp have revealed that Riveiro could make tactical tweaks for the second leg, with several key players in line to feature prominently.
Midfielder Kabelo Dlamini, striker Evidence Makgopa, defender Tapelo Xoki, and full-back Paseka Mako are all reportedly being considered to play pivotal roles in Cairo this Friday.
The technical team is believed to be aiming for a more balanced approach – tightening up defensively while increasing the tempo in attack – to counter the threat posed by Pyramids on home soil.
Read: Motsepe Addresses Stadium Violence & Corruption
With a place in the final on the line, the Buccaneers will need to deliver a disciplined and decisive performance.
Having already demonstrated resilience and composure throughout the campaign, Ezimnyama will be banking on experience and strategic squad rotation to navigate the highly-important encounter and continue their continental dream.
