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Orlando Pirates face a difficult challenge in the 2026/27 CAF Champions League after being drawn in Group C alongside Tanzanian giants Simba SC, Moroccan heavyweights RS Berkane and Cameroonian side Colombe Sportive.
The draw has created an intriguing South African connection, with former Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker leading Simba SC. The Tanzanian club also boasts several players familiar to South African football fans.
Among them are former Mamelodi Sundowns and Sekhukhune United forward Keletso Makgalwa, experienced defender Rushine De Reuck and midfielder Neo Maema. Their presence could make Simba a particularly challenging opponent for the Buccaneers.
Simba demonstrated their attacking strength during the qualifying rounds, recording an impressive 9-1 aggregate victory over Equatorial Guinea's 15 de Agosto. Makgalwa contributed goals in both legs as the Tanzanian outfit secured qualification for the group stage.
Meanwhile, RS Berkane are expected to provide another major test for Pirates. The Moroccan side reached last season's semi-finals and strengthened their reputation by defeating Star Sport Academy 3-0 on aggregate during qualification. Their strong continental record makes them one of the leading contenders in Group C.
Cameroon's Colombe Sportive also secured their place in the group stage with a convincing 3-0 aggregate victory over Teungueth.
Pirates qualified after delivering a dominant performance against African Stars, winning 5-0 on aggregate under head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.
The Buccaneers will need consistency and tactical discipline to navigate the challenging group. While Colombe Sportive could offer opportunities to collect valuable points, matches against Simba and Berkane are likely to prove decisive in determining which teams advance to the knockout stages.
Winning their home matches in Soweto and securing positive results away from home will be crucial to Pirates' hopes of progressing further in Africa's premier club competition.
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