Orlando Pirates have received a major vote of confidence from Baba Mthethwa, who believes the Soweto giants have the quality required to win the CAF Champions League and restore continental glory to the club.

Mthethwa has backed the Buccaneers to compete for Africa’s biggest club prize but warned that attractive football and strong performances will count for little if they fail to finish the job. He believes Pirates must turn their potential into silverware if they are to satisfy their supporters.

“Orlando Pirates can win the CAF Champions League. They know that you can go close, but close is not good enough. You need to go over the line,” Mthethwa said.

His comments come as expectations continue to grow around a revamped Pirates side that has attracted attention for its style of play and ambitions on the continental stage. While Mthethwa praised the team’s performances, he stressed that trophies ultimately remain the most important measure of success.

“They have a new team that plays refreshing football, but that’s not enough. What matters most is silverware,” he added.

Pirates have a proud history in African football, having won the CAF Champions League in 1995. Their supporters have since waited for another opportunity to see the club reach the summit of the continent, making the current campaign particularly significant.

Mthethwa also raised the possibility of an all-South African final against Mamelodi Sundowns, another club with strong continental ambitions. He believes such a showdown is possible if both teams can navigate the competition successfully.

“Let’s hope Orlando Pirates will go all the way this time and maybe play Mamelodi Sundowns in the final. It’s possible. It’s up to the two teams,” he said.

For Pirates, the challenge now is to match the confidence surrounding them with consistent results. Mthethwa believes the quality is present, but the Buccaneers must deliver when it matters most if they are to bring the CAF Champions League trophy back to Soweto.

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