Orlando Pirates will be looking to secure their place in the CAF Champions League group stages when they host Namibia’s African Stars in the second leg of their second preliminary round tie at Orlando Stadium on Friday night.

The Buccaneers take a 1-0 aggregate lead into the encounter after Tshepang Moremi scored in the 75th minute of the first leg at the National Stadium in Gaborone, Botswana, on Saturday.

Head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou says his team is ready for the challenge, with preparations focused on player recovery and tactical adjustments following a difficult first leg.

“The preparation went well. The most important was really to focus on the recovery of the players, and of course, to have two sessions to make some tactical adjustments about what we have seen in the last game,” said Ouaddou.

The Pirates coach is determined to guide his side into the next round, reminding his players of the importance of delivering for their supporters.

“Our fans owe us this competition, so we are going to give everything to make them happy,” he added.

Pirates will also be eager to avoid a repeat of last season’s disappointment, when they failed to progress at this stage of the competition.

However, Ouaddou insists there is no anxiety within the camp, highlighting the importance of unity and discipline ahead of Friday’s encounter.

“For me, what is most important is to respect the plan and to be united, because in this kind of competition, we need the whole team to be connected, to roll in the same direction together to reach the target,” he said.

Meanwhile, the coach has dismissed suggestions of a rift between himself and assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi, amid speculation surrounding the technical team.

Ouaddou also addressed questions about new signing Sebastian’s limited playing time, insisting there are no concerns about the striker’s integration into the squad.

“I’m happy about his commitment. I’m happy about his integration. We are doing everything to help him,” said Ouaddou.

He explained that the technical team is carefully managing the player’s introduction, adding that he is working hard in training and will be given an opportunity at the right time.

With a narrow advantage to protect and their home supporters behind them, Orlando Pirates will be determined to finish the job and secure a place in the CAF Champions League group stages.

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